Confirmation

“And with that he breathed on them and said,’Receive the Holy Spirit."

  - John 20:22

The Sacrament of Confirmation is the second of the three sacraments of initiation, Baptism and Holy Eucharist being the other two. When the bishop consecrates the one to be confirmed with”Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit” and then anoints him or her with the Oil of Chrism, in a very special and mysterious way, Confirmation enriches and enhances the graces received during Baptism. The newly confirmed become full participants in the life of the church as true witnesses of Christ by receiving the Holy Spirit’s seven gifts: knowledge, understanding, wisdom, fortitude, right judgement, piety and fear of the Lord.

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Knowledge helps to instruct us about God and to appreciate God’s work in the world. Understanding helps one penetrate into the truths of faith. Wisdom helps one make judgements that will help to attain the goal of holiness. Fortitude or courage helps each person boldly to proclaim the gospel. Right Judgement or counsel helps the confirmandi make right decisions. Piety or reverence inspires gratitude to God for all that was given. Fear of the Lord or wonder and awe inspires appreciation for the presence of the Lord.