The Sacrament of Confirmation
It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For "by the sacrament of Confirmation, the baptized are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed."
-Catechism of the Catholic Church 1285
Bishop Johnston has set the 6th grade year as the time to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Candicates must register for PSR and attend formation sessions. Parents who home-school should contact Father Powers. All parents of sixth grade students will be contacted by letter and email. Candidates are expected to attend an approved Confirmation retreat. Prior participation in The Way is mandatory (see below).
CONFIRMATION: MARCH 7, 2026,10:30a.m., CATHEDRAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
The Way: Youth to Young Adult Initiative
Main features of the Way
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The time for ordinary reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation will be 6th grade.
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A comprehensive approach will integrate existing formation for the Sacraments of Initiation and the Sacrament of Penance with the role of parents.
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Retreats and other faith formation experiences will emphasize encounter with God and the value of memory
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Support will be provided to equip parents for fruitful conversations with their children.
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Guidance will be given to parents regarding ages and stages of development in faith and discipleship.
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Intention efforts to bridge gaps between stages of development and stages of life will assist youth in navigating their way towards adult faith.
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Formation at key moments will support youth as they approach, discern, and commit to their vocation.
Mandatory participation by grade level, outside of classroom time
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1st grade - Good Shepherd Year
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Discussion guides provided for remote preparation for First Confess​
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2nd grade - Holy Eucharist Year
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Parents are invited to experience a personal encounter with God through an Invitation Retreat.​
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3rd grade - Holy Family Year
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Do-it-yourself family retreat​ done at home. A guide will be provided.
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4th grade - Ten Commandments Year
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Parents will receive a packet of material to facilitate further reflection on the commandments.​
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5th grade - Call to Holiness Year
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Candidates will participate in a "Called to Greatness" retreat at a diocesan facility. This will not be a "Confirmation-themed" retreat.
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6th grade - Holy Spirit Year
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Attendance at formation sessions during PSR time and attendance at a retreat.​
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7th - 8th grade - Works of Charity and Mercy Years