Confirmation is one of the three sacraments of initiation in the Church, along with baptism and first Communion. The Church teaches that confirmation is necessary because it enriches the person with the strength of the Holy Spirit to build up the Church and to be witnesses of Christ to others.

In the Archdiocese of New Orleans, confirmation is generally offered in eleventh grade, with a year of formation leading up to the big day. The sacrament typically is conferred within the context of Mass. The rite of confirmation includes three key parts: the renewal of baptismal vows, the laying on of hands by the bishop and anointing with the sacred chrism oil.

The renewal of baptismal promises is a reminder that as Christians, we have essentially “died” to our own lives and begin our new life in Christ in the Church. Through confirmation, Catholics realize the fullness of the promises that were first given in baptism.

Those being confirmed should look to their sponsor as well as the patron saint chosen for a confirmation name as sources of inspiration in living a Christian life. Candidates are encouraged to foster a relationship with those saints through prayer and to seek relationships with role models here on earth — such as the confirmation sponsor — in living a Christian life.