Rite of Confirmation
The Rite of Confirmation is celebrated during the mass.
Mass begins in the usual way and continues as normal until
the Gospel. After the Gospel everybody sits and the
Confirmation ceremony itself begins. The Confirmation
ceremony is made up of four parts:
1.
2.
3.
4.
The Renewal of Baptismal Promises.
The Laying on of Hands.
The Anointing with Chrism.
Presence of the Christian Community
1. The Renewal of Baptismal Promises
We renew our Baptismal Promises during the Confirmation ceremony to
highlight the connection between Baptism and Confirmation.
In the presence of the community and with their support and prayers we
are confirming the promises made for us at our Baptism. We are now
promising to live a Christian way of life.
2. Laying on of Hands
The Bishop extends his hands over our heads to show that the Holy Spirit is
coming down on us, as he came down like a dove on Jesus and like a flame
on the apostles.
3. Anointing with Chrism
This tradition is thousands of years old. Kings, Priests and Prophets were
all anointed with oil. The oil signified strength. The sign of the cross made
with the Chrism is like a seal. It shows that we are genuine followers of
Christ
4. Presence of the Christian Community
Parent, sponsors, priests, teachers and relatives are all gathered together
to celebrate the occasion when we become adult members of the Church.
They are also witnessing our promises and agree to help us as we continue
4. Presence of the Christian Community
Parent, sponsors, priests, teachers and relatives are all gathered
together to celebrate the occasion when we become adult
members of the Church. They are also witnessing our promises
and agree to help us as we continue on the journey of faith.