St. Cyril of Jerusalem Church
Preparation for the Sacrament of
Confirmation
2012-2013
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Table of Contents
Commitment Sunday………………………………………………………………………….pg. 3
Sacrament Sunday...……………………………………………………………………………….3
Sponsors………………………………………………………………………………………..3,11
Education Sessions………………………………………………………………………….….….4
Assessments……………………………………………………………………………………….4
Christian Service Projects……………………………………………………………..…........4, 13
Retreat………………………………………………………………………………………….4,10
Letter to Msgr./ Bishop………………………………………………………………………...4,27
Readiness Interview………………………………………………………………………………4
Program Closure…………………………………………………………………………………..5
Candidate Follow-up………………………………………………………………………….......5
Important Dates…………………………………………………………………………………6-7
Parent/ Guardian Responsibility…………………………………………………………………..8
Student Assignments…………………………………………………………………………..8-10
The Rite of Confirmation……………………………………………………………… …..11-12
Role of sponsor…………………………………………………………………………..11
Candidates……………………………………………………………………………11-12
Humanitarian Service Projects…..………………………………………………………….........13
Confirmation Catechetical Concepts “In Brief” Statements…………………………...…….14-15
Prayers and Tenets of our Faith………………………………………………………………16-19
Living Biblical Principles………………………………………………………………………..19
Being Catholic………………………………………………………………………………..20-22
Core Catholic Beliefs…………………………………………………………………….20
Core Catholic Attitudes…………………………………………………………………..21
Core Catholic Practices..…………………………………………………………………22
Confirmation Project……………………………………………………………………………..23
Confirmation Data Sheet…………………………………………………………………………25
Letter to Msgr./ Bishop…………………………………………………..……………………4, 27
Catholic/ Private School Confirmation Information……………………………………………..28
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2012-2013
The Sacrament of Confirmation
St. Cyril of Jerusalem
For all Confirmandi
Dear Parents,
Welcome to our Confirmation Program. St. Cyril’s program is designed to help our young people
come to a deeper understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in their lives and in the life of our
church, and of how they can interact with that Spirit to lead a life that will draw them into a
closer relationship with our Lord.
Information in this book applies to our Confirmandi in Catholic and Public school. Within
our religious formation programs the Confirmation program is considered to be one of the
most important. Our program requires several steps to help our young people achieve their
goal. We ask and hope that you as parents will help us by taking an active role in this most
important year in your child’s Religious Formation. Specifics for you are listed below and
include an “Important Dates” calendar. A separate page is included for our
Private/Catholic school Confirmandi.
Parent and Candidate Meetings
Commitment Sunday
Parents and candidates are invited to attend Commitment Sunday on September 30, 2012 at the
10:00 AM Mass to pledge your commitment to your confirmation preparation and be welcomed
by the parish community. Sponsors are invited and encouraged to attend. Presentation of
Candidates is a ceremony in which the candidates, who choose to enter into the immediate
preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation, make their commitment official. Prior to
Commitment Sunday, the candidates are asked to seriously and prayerfully think about what will
be required of them during this time of preparation. At least one parent is required to attend with
your child. All being confirmed at St. Cyril’s are expected to attend this event here.
Sacrament Sunday
Parents, candidates and sponsors (if possible) are expected to attend our Confirmation
sacramental event to reflect on the Sacrament of Confirmation and the way to further your
relationship with Jesus. This afternoon of prayer and reflection will be held Sunday March 3,
2013. Our program will begin at 1:30PM and adjourn at 4:00PM. At least one parent is required
to attend with your child. All children being confirmed at St. Cyril’s are expected to attend this
event here.
Sponsors
The role of sponsor is a very important one. Even though some sponsors may be out of town, it
is important for sponsors to develop a spiritual relationship with the candidate and to offer
suggestions for ways in which that relationship can be nurtured. It is expected that the sponsor
will make every effort to work with the candidate. Confirmandi are expected to have their
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sponsor chosen and the data information paperwork completed and turned in by the week
of November 26th, 2012.
Education Sessions
Each candidate is required to attend their classes and complete their class work. Absences are
not permitted except for a serious conflict such as illness. Any long term absence should be
discussed with the Director of Religious Education. Additional work is expected outside of
normal session time. This will be assigned per the curriculum.
Assessments
There are four assessments given to the students. All assessments are accessible ahead of time
posted on the parish website at www.saintcyril.com , complete with questions and answer keys.
Dates for assessments can be found in this packet on the important dates pages 6-7.
Christian Service Projects
Because of the nature of the sacrament and the public statement being made by the candidates
before our church community, Christian service projects must be completed by each candidate
before Confirmation. Service is a critical component of Confirmation preparation. Projects
should be selected not on the basis of ease and to get it out of the way, but on the basis of
the Gospel call to service and what it can teach the Confirmandi about the Church’s social
mission, the social nature of the Gospel and the call of Jesus “to serve one another.” Please
refer to page 21 of this packet where we elicit the seven significant themes of Catholic
Social Teaching. Students will keep track of their service hours in a Service Journal they
receive. The service journals will be checked at least four times during the course of the year and
must reflect true service and the time spent with each. ServiceworX, a week long mission
experience for middle school youth is offered in order to continue to reinforce that we are being
authentically Catholic when we are in service to others.
Retreat Experience
Each candidate is required to participate in a full day retreat to spend time in discernment,
reflection and community building with the other candidates in the program. The retreat is
scheduled for November 8, 2012. Nativity parishioners will make their retreat with their
class. If they wish to also participate in our retreat they are welcome to do so. Students
attending other Catholic schools are welcome to attend the retreat with their class or with
us.
Letter to the Msgr. Powell and Bishop
According to canon law, it is the pastor’s role to assure that each candidate is properly prepared
and spiritually ready to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, each candidate will
write a letter (one) to Bishop and Msgr. Powell explaining why they wish to celebrate
Confirmation and what the sacrament means to them. An example is on page 29. This letter is
due the week of February 4, 2013.
Readiness Interview
There is no interview. The four assessments and Confirmation project take the place of this
process.
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Program Closure
The conclusion of our program is the celebration of the sacrament of Confirmation in the
church. Date and rehearsal information will be provided at a later date. It can also be found in
the bulletin and on the web site.
Candidate Follow-up
Our Catholic Faith strongly encourages all of our youth to continue their religious
formation through high school and into adulthood. All of the church documents,
statements from the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops etc. stress that
understanding our Faith, the Sacraments, forming our moral compass and conscience,
understanding the Church’s social doctrine is a lifelong learning process. When we as
parents promise, at the time of Baptism, that we will raise our children in their Catholic
Faith and accept the responsibility to be the primary educators of our children in their
Faith, this is what we are promising. We are not promising to make sure they receive
Penance, Communion and Confirmation. We are not promising to raise sixth grade
Catholics. We are promising to give them every opportunity to grow in their knowledge of
their faith, to develop a personal relationship with Jesus their Lord and Savior.
We can quibble about the age for Confirmation with some proposing that it be later and
others with a different opinion. This is not the critical issue. The issue is on-going Faith
Formation and being able to understand their Faith, for their life, as they grow and
mature. As a middle school student they need God and need Him in different ways than
they do in 6th grade. In high school this is even more important. Otherwise we are
educating 6th grade Catholics and this is not suitable spiritual and moral growth for our
middle and high school youth. We owe it to them and as parents you should be demanding
it of your parish.
Our youth can accomplish this through active participation in programs we offer here at
St. Cyril’s namely GENESIS for our middle school youth (7,8,9,) and G.Y.M. high school
youth ministry for level 9 through 12.
Please express any concerns with these requirements with Deacon Joe Owen at your
convenience. We welcome any and all comments aimed at helping our program grow to meet
the needs of our young people.
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IMPORTANT DATES FOR THE YEAR
M/T/W
SEPTEMBER 10, 11, 12
PREP sessions begin. Initial Confirmation Assessment #1 will be given in class.
All Confirmation Retreat Forms Due at this first session. This is not required
for our Catholic school students. The Confirmation Retreat can be participated in
at their respective school regardless if the date is before or after Confirmation.
However if your son/daughter wishes to join us on retreat they are more than
welcome.
SUNDAY
SEPTEMBER 30, 2012, COMMITMENT SUNDAY @ 10:00AM Mass.
For all parents and confirmandi. Sponsors are invited and urged to attend.
THURSDAY NOVEMBER 8, 2012, CONFIRMATION RETREAT
Confirmation Retreat at St. Cyril in the Social Hall from 8:15-2:30PM.
Information will be forthcoming in the mail during August 2012 .
M/T/W
NOVEMBER 26, 27, 28
Confirmation data form due along with letter of eligibility if necessary. Data
form found on page 27 of Confirmation packet.
The Saint Research Paper outlining the reason why a particular saint’s name is
chosen is due at this time. Information on what should be included in the research
paper can be found on pages 8-9 of this packet.
Students in Catholic school are requested to provide us with a Baptismal
certificate unless Confirmandi was baptized at St Cyril’s.
M/T/W
DECEMBER 3, 4, 5
Confirmation Assessment #2 is given this week- check point of material covered
to date.
M/T/W
FEBRUARY 4, 5, 6
Letter requesting confirmation, addressed to Bishop and Msgr Powell, due.
Details can be found in the Confirmation packet on page 29. This is due from
everyone.
SUNDAY
MARCH 3. SACRAMENT SUNDAY for parents and confirmandi. Sponsors
are invited and urged to attend if they reside in the area. Our program will begin
at 1:30PM and adjourn at 4:00PM.
M/T/W
MARCH 11, 12, 13
Confirmation Assessment #3 given in class – check point of material covered to
date.
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M/T/W/
APRIL 22, 23, 24
Confirmation Assessment #4 given in class –check point of material covered to
date.
M/T/W
APRIL 8, 9, 10
Confirmation Project due for all Confirmandi including Catholic school
students. Please see page 25.
DATES FOR CONFIRMATION AND PRACTICES TO BE DETERMINED
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“BLESSED ARE THEY
WHO FOLLOW THE LAW OF THE LORD!”
PARENT INFORMATION
SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION
Ecclesiasticus 30:3 A man who educates his son will be the envy of his enemy, and will be
proud of him among his friends.
Parental/Guardian Responsibility
As parents/guardians, you are called to assist your child in a special way as they prepare for the
Sacrament of Confirmation. We have developed this packet to enable you and your child to fully prepare
for the reception of the Holy Spirit, without being overburdened. We ask that you look over the written
assignments. This will prevent you and your child from being caught in a time-bind as the due dates for
assignments approach.
Student Assignments
1. Confirmation Statements:
These “in brief” statements are from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.
Understanding the content of these concepts is important in the catechetical preparation for the
reception of the sacrament of Confirmation.
2. Prayers and Formulas
Students have also been assigned certain prayers and formulas important to the faith of the
Catholic Church.
3. Service
Each student must complete at least 15 hours of community related service either with their
community or parish family. Further details are listed on pages 13 & 14. Service hours completed
should be written in the service journal provided at the beginning of the program.
4. Candidate Data Information Sheet with letter of Eligibility from Sponsors –
All sponsors, excluding ones from St. Cyril, must obtain a “Certificate of Eligibility”
from their home parish. Please attach the certificate to the Data Information Form,
which is enclosed in this packet on page 27. We also need a Baptismal certificate from
all Catholic School students who did not make First Eucharist at St Cyril.
5. Choosing your Confirmation name
Each candidate is to prayerfully choose their confirmation name. You may choose your present
baptismal name (current first name) or choose a new name. Whether you are choosing to keep your
present name or take a new one, write at least two paragraphs about your choice. The name chosen
should represent the direction you feel your faith life is taking, or would represent strength or an
attribute you feel you need. It is important and necessary to know something about the person or saint
before you decide on that name. The paper should be typed. It should be written by the student based
on research completed and not simply printed as a result of a Google search. All such papers will be
returned to be redone.
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If you are choosing to keep your current name, the first paragraph is to be about why you are keeping
your baptismal name. The second paragraph is to be about the person or saint for whom you are
named and why.
If you are choosing a new name, the first paragraph should be about the particular person or saint
whose name you are choosing. The second paragraph is to be about why you are choosing this name.
What significance or meaning does this saint or person hold for you? What do you hope to gain by
modeling yourself after this person or saint?
6. Faith Sharing (Interview) discussion with Candidate
This traditional practice has been discontinued as of last year. We no longer do this because it
was deemed to be an ineffectual means of determining the readiness of the candidate. I will
continue to meet with them throughout the year but in small groups for 15 minutes or so at a
time. The purpose of this is to get to know them personally as well as assess where they are
with their Faith.
In terms of understanding how well our Confirmandi understand their Faith the assessments
are a much better guide. The Catechists review the material. You are asked to review the
material with them as well. They are not graded but they are reviewed for correct and
incorrect answers and if they do not do well they will be required to retake the assessment
until they do.
During my sessions with them I will also talk to them about GENESIS and why it is
important. GENESIS is an integral part of our youth ministry here at St. Cyril’s and if you as
a parent have made the decision that your child is not going to attend GENESIS than we
should probably talk about it. On-going religious formation and an on-going connection with
their Faith and Church are vital to them in the middle school years and beyond. And it is
important for parents to understand that being confirmed carries with it a deliberate decision
on the part of the candidate to embrace Catholicism and a deliberate desire to continue to
grow in the knowledge of their Faith.
If this is not the case than serious consideration should be given to the whole question of
Confirmation as a Sacrament to be received. I would ask that you pray about this and seek the
guidance of the Holy Spirit.
Readiness interviews will be held for all Catholic school parishioners at the discretion of the
parents and school.
7. Dress Code/ Fee
Candidates will wear red robes to signify the connection with the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the
Apostles and their commissioning by Christ to go forth and spread the Good News to all people. All
students are to dress appropriately, that is no sneakers, jeans. Boys are to wear dress shoes,
shirt, and tie and dress pants. A jacket is not required. Girls are to wear dress shoes, a dress or
skirt. Parents are also asked to dress appropriately as are sponsors and all family members and
friends in attendance.
A fee of $50.00 was collected at registration and it covers: the cost of the robe, special Confirmation
materials, speaker fee for Sacramental Sunday, retreat speakers fee, program costs, DVD of the
Confirmation Mass and picture with the Bishop.
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The Confirmation fee for Catholic School Students is $30.00. There are materials that we use in
Confirmation Preparation that are included: Fireside Youth Bible, Service journal, FAQ’s
about Confirmation. Should you wish to have these materials for your child please let Deacon
Joe Owen know. Fee is due from our Catholic school parishioners by October 1, 2012.
8. Day of Retreat –
The day of retreat will be held at the Social Hall at St. Cyril of Jerusalem on
November 8, 2012. The retreat is an excellent opportunity for the students to come together to reflect
on what their Faith means to them and what the Sacrament of Confirmation can mean for their lives.
It is directed by John Paul Kasperowicz, a charismatic and deeply spiritual young man, married and
father of three children. John has been a part of many programs in the Diocese and we have been
fortunate to have him as part of our retreat for the past several years. The program closes with Mass
and all parents are invited to attend. Any parent that wishes to attend the retreat may do so as well.
9. Letter to Msgr. Powell and Bishop
According to canon law, it is the pastor’s role to assure that each candidate is properly prepared and
spiritually ready to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, each candidate will write a
letter explaining why they wish to celebrate Confirmation and what the sacrament means to them.
The letter should address two basic questions:
What does Confirmation mean to you?
Why do you feel you are ready to celebrate the sacrament of Confirmation?
You may also include personal information and comments on your service projects.
An example is included page 29.
10. HOW TO USE THIS MANUAL
This manual is designed for you as parents. Our Catechists do not teach to the manual.
Material contained in the manual has all been reviewed with your child in level 1-5. They
are required to know and understand the material enclosed and it is the responsibility of
parents as the first teachers of their children in Faith to review the material with them. The
bulk of this information can be found on pages 15-20. Information on other pages should
be reviewed as well.
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THE RITE OF CONFIRMATION
The Role of the Sponsor
Sponsors:
 May be a baptismal Godparent, thus emphasizing more clearly the relationship between
Baptism and Confirmation.
 Must know the candidate and be willing to serve as a strong and long-lasting Christian
influence on the candidate.
 Support the person to be confirmed in their commitment to a Christian life.
 Must belong to the Catholic Church and be fully initiated themselves. They must have
received Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist.
 Should be sufficiently mature in his/her own faith commitment.
 May be either male or female for any candidate.
 Must be 16 years of age or older.
 Must obtain a statement of eligibility from the pastor of their parish if not a
parishioner of St Cyril’s
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 May help the candidate prepare for Confirmation.
 May assist the candidate in choosing and carrying out the candidate’s service
commitment.
 Must be reasonably informed on current church teachings.
 May accompany the candidate to special liturgies and preparation programs.
 May not be the parent of the candidate. NO EXCEPTIONS.
 Can encourage the candidate by growing in a faith relationship.
 May assist in determining the candidate’s readiness for the sacrament.
Candidates Preparing for Confirmation
Candidates:
 Must freely choose to be confirmed and make their desire known.
 Must be in the state of grace.
 Must have adequate knowledge of the Catholic Faith and have participated in the
required learning sessions.
 Should attend Mass and receive the sacraments of Eucharist and Reconciliation regularly.
 Are responsible for completing all required home study and service.
 Must be aware of the initiation aspect of the sacrament of Confirmation and be
committed to continuing the faithful practice and study of their religion.
 Must be willing to participate in the Confirmation program of prayer, retreat, and
celebration of the sacrament of Reconciliation.
 Should show a willingness to participate in shared faith experiences
 Should desire to live a life committed to the life and mission of the Church
 Should have an interest in further exploring the Catholic faith
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Preparing Candidates for Confirmation cont.
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Parents are the primary educators of their children.
Are responsible for initiating their children into the sacramental life.
Serve as models for their child by being committed Christians.
Worship with their families regularly.
Nurture their child in faith.
Should encourage their child to reflect on and thoughtfully consider the decision to
receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.
Are to attend meetings, and programs that are planned to help prepare their child for the
Sacrament of Confirmation.
Are no longer permitted as Confirmation sponsors for their own child.
Are asked to assist their child with the immediate preparation for the Sacrament of
Confirmation through prayer, study, and Christian service.
Can emphasize the importance of the Sacrament of Confirmation by taking an active part
in the celebration of Confirmation.
Should stress the initiation aspect of the sacrament by encouraging their children to
continue learning more about their faith.
Should help their child in understanding that the Confirmation service is the beginning of
a life committed to Christian service.
The Sacrament of Confirmation:
 Is celebrated during Mass
 Begins after the Liturgy of the Word
 Is presided over by the Bishop or a designated auxiliary or pastor
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There are four parts to the rite:
Renewal of baptismal vows
Laying On of hands
Anointing with oil
Sign of peace
All who are led by the Spirit
are children of God
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HUMANITARIAN SERVICE PROJECTS
Jesus came “Not to be served, but to serve.” (Mt. 20:28) Jesus was a compassionate and
loving man who was committed to serving others and truly practiced what He preached. Our
Church is a Christian community of servants who follow in the footsteps of Jesus Christ by
reaching out to those in need.
In preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation and to instill a genuine Christian attitude in our
children, candidates for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation are required to volunteer
fifteen (15) hours on humanitarian service projects. These projects are chosen by the candidate
and performed voluntarily without compensation and for the benefit the recipient physically,
emotionally or in a practical way, etc.
Examples of Humanitarian Service Projects:
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Assisting another student with home work, school project, tutoring, etc
Helping an elderly neighbor with chores such as mowing the lawn, gardening, shoveling
snow, etc
Volunteering at a hospital, library, nursing home, child care program, etc
Teaching a craft, reading, or visiting with senior citizens, etc
Participating in school related service activities
Participating in food and clothing drives, working at soup kitchens, etc
Participating in St. Cyril parish projects; Good Friday Living Stations (10 service hours),
Vacation Bible School (10 service hours), Children’s Christmas choir, clean up projects,
PREP office work, etc.
Students are responsible for obtaining service projects and recording hours in their Service
Journal. Level 6 Catechists are responsible for monitoring their students “Humanitarian Service
Projects and periodically reviewing the student’
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Confirmation Catechetical Concepts “In Brief” Statements
1. Who is a Christian?
A Christian is a follower of Christ.
2. When did you become a Christian?
I became a Christian at Baptism.
3. What is Grace?
Grace is a participation in the divine life God has given to us.
Sacraments give grace if we receive them with the right disposition.
4. What is a sacrament?
The seven sacraments are signs (words and actions) instituted by Christ to give grace.
The seven sacraments are Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist, Penance, Anointing of the Sick,
Holy Orders and Matrimony.
5. How are the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist visible signs of initiation?
Initiation is the sacramental process by which we are made members of the body of Christ,
the Church. The Sacraments of initiation are Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist.
Christians are reborn in Baptism, strengthened in Confirmation and nourished by the Body
and Blood of Christ in the Eucharist.
6. What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is the sacrament of initiation in which we are sealed and strengthened with the
gift of the Holy Spirit.
7. Why can Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders be received only once?
These sacraments imprint a “spiritual mark or indelible character on the Christian’s soul”; for
this reason one can receive these sacraments only once in one’s life.
8. What is the character or spiritual mark of Confirmation?
This “character” is the sign that Jesus Christ has marked the Christian with the seal of his
Spirit by clothing them with power from on high so that they may be his witness.
9. Who can receive this sacrament?
Every baptized person not yet confirmed can and should receive the sacrament of
Confirmation. “To receive the sacrament of Confirmation one must be in a state of grace.
One should receive the sacrament or Penance in order to be cleansed for the gift of the Holy
Spirit.
10. Who is the Holy Spirit who comes to us in Confirmation?
The Holy Spirit is God and the third person of the Blessed Trinity.
11. Who is the minister of Confirmation?
The ordinary minister of the sacrament of Confirmation is the Bishop.
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12. How does the Holy Spirit come to us in Confirmation? How does the Bishop confirm?
Confirmation is conferred through the laying on of hands, the prayer to the Holy Spirit, the
anointing of the forehead with chrism, and the words…. “Be sealed with the Gift of the
Holy Spirit.
13. What is Chrism?
Chrism is perfumed oil blessed by the bishop on Holy Thursday and used in the
sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Orders.
14. What does the Bishop say when he anoints the forehead?
When the Bishop anoints the forehead of the one being confirmed he says,
(Confirmation Name), be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.
I respond: Amen
Bishop:
Peace be with you.
I respond: And with your spirit.
15. What are the effects of the sacrament of Confirmation?
The effect of the sacrament of confirmation is the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit as once
granted to the apostles on the day of Pentecost.
16. What is required to be a sponsor at Confirmation?
To be a sponsor at Confirmation, a person must be a practicing Catholic (in a valid
marriage) and already confirmed. Candidates for Confirmation, as for Baptism, seek the
spiritual help of a sponsor. “To emphasize the unity of the two sacraments, it is appropriate
that this be one of the baptismal godparents.”
17. Read about the first Pentecost in the Acts of the Apostles, Chapter 2.
Be prepared to answer the following questions:
Who was gathered together? Apostles, disciples and holy women, including Mary
Where were they gathered? In Jerusalem in the Upper Room
In what form did the Holy Spirit come upon those gathered? First, those gathered heard
the sound of rushing wind and then they saw tongues of fire above the heads of each
person.
18. Name the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit.
The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit are: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge,
piety and fear of the Lord.
19. Name the twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit.
The twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit are: “charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness,
generosity, gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control and chastity.”
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PRAYERS AND TENETS OF OUR FAITH
“In every age and culture Christianity has commended certain prayers, formulas, practices to all members
of the faith community, even the youngest. While catechesis cannot be limited to the repetition of
formulas, memorization has never the less had a special place in the passing on of our faith throughout the
ages and should continue to have such a place today, especially in catechetical programs for the young.
In this way certain elements of Catholic faith, tradition, and practice are learned for a lifetime and can
contribute to the individual’s continues growth in understanding and living the faith.” (National
Catechetical Directory #176)
Basic Prayers to be known:
The Sign of the Cross and the Doxology (Glory Be to the Father)
The Lord’s Prayer
The Hail Mary
The Apostles Creed
Act of Contrition
Formulas regarding Worship:
The Liturgical Seasons
The Parts of the Mass
The Holydays of Obligation
The Mysteries of the Rosary
The Seven Sacraments
Those preparing for Confirmation:
- The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
- The Fruits of the Holy Spirit
- The Theological Virtues
Formulas and Practices Dealing with the Moral Life:
The Ten Commandments
Duties (Precepts) of a Catholic Christian
The Beatitudes
The Corporal Works of Mercy
The Spiritual Works of Mercy
Act of Contrition: My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing
to do good, I have sinned against you whom I should love above all things. I firmly intend, with your
help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Amen
The Corporal Works of Mercy:
The Spiritual Works of Mercy:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
1. Help (correct the) sinners
2. Teach the ignorant
3. Give advice to the doubtful
4. Comfort those who suffer
5. Be patient with others
6. Forgive injuries
7. Pray for the living and the dead
Feed the hungry
Give drink to the thirsty
Clothe the naked
Visit those in prison
Shelter the homeless
Visit the sick
Bury the dead
HOLY DAYS OF OBLIGATION :
January 1
The Solemnity of Mary
Easter or the Resurrection
Date changes
Ascension of Our Lord
40 days after Easter
August 15
Assumption of the Blessed Mother
November 1
All Saints Day
December 8
Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary
December 25
Christmas
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Special Feast Days in the USA:
Ash Wednesday..................... The Wednesday before the first Sunday in Lent
Palm Sunday........................... The Sunday before Easter
Holy Thursday........................ The Thursday before Easter....
Good Friday ........................... The Friday before Easter
Holy Saturday ........................ The Saturday before Easter....
Pentecost ................................ Fifty days after Easter
All Souls Day.......................... November 2
Liturgical Seasons
Advent
Christmas
Ordinary Time
Lent
Holy Week
Easter
Ordinary Time
Four week season that precedes Christmas
Celebration of Jesus’ birth
Celebrated between Baptism of Jesus and Ash Wednesday
Ash Wednesday until Holy Thursday
Triduum begins Holy Thursday, ends Easter Sunday evening
Easter Sunday evening until Pentecost
Celebrated between Pentecost and Advent
The Way of the Cross
(Stations of the Cross)
Parts of the Mass
1. Introductory Rite
2. The Liturgy of the Word
3. The Liturgy of the Eucharist
4. The Communion Rite
5. Concluding Rite
1. Jesus is condemned to death.
2. Jesus accepts the cross.
3. Jesus falls the first time.
4. Jesus meets His mother.
5. Simon helps Jesus carry the cross.
6. Veronica wipes the face of Jesus.
7. Jesus falls the second time.
8. Jesus meets the women of Jerusalem
9. Jesus falls the third time.
10. Jesus is stripped of His garments.
11. Jesus is nailed to the cross
12. Jesus dies on the cross
13. Jesus is taken down from the cross
14. Jesus is buried in the tomb
The Mysteries of the Rosary
The Joyful Mysteries
The Glorious Mysteries
The Annunciation
The Visit of Mary to Elizabeth
The Birth of Jesus
The Presentation of Jesus in the Temple
The Finding of Jesus in the Temple
The Resurrection of Jesus
The Ascension of Jesus into Heaven
The Descent of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles
The Assumption of Mary into Heaven
The Crowning of Mary as Queen of Heaven
The Sorrowful Mysteries
The Luminous Mysteries
The Agony of Jesus in the Garden
The Scourging at the Pillar
The Crowning with Thorns
The Carrying of the Cross
The Crucifixion and Death of Jesus
The Baptism in the Jordan
The Wedding of Cana
The Proclamation of the Kingdom of God
The Transfiguration
The Institution of the Eucharist
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THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
1. Wisdom - helps us know how God wants us to live.
2. Understanding - helps us be aware of all that God has taught us through Jesus, the Bible, and the
Church.
3. Knowledge - helps us to know that God is more important than anything else in life.
4. Right Judgement - helps us to make good decisions.
5. Courage - helps us to be strong when faced with problems.
6. Reverence - helps us to love God as our Father and to show our love in prayer.
7. Wonder and Awe - helps us to be filled with wonder and thanks for all that God creates.
The twelve fruits of the Holy Spirit are: charity, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, generosity,
gentleness, faithfulness, modesty, self-control and chastity.
The Three Theological Virtues are Faith, Hope and Charity (Love)
Short Act of Faith, Hope and Love:
O my God, I believe in you, I hope in you and I love you with all my heart. Amen.
Seven Capital Sins
The seven capital sins are pride, avarice, envy, wrath, lust, gluttony and sloth.
THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS
Sacraments of Initiation:
1. Baptism - priest performs, received once, sign is water and anointing with oil
2. Confirmation - bishop performs, received once, sign is laying on of hands.
3. Eucharist - priest consecrates, received as often as possible, sign is bread and wine.
Sacraments of Healing:
1. Penance - priest gives absolution (reconciled with God), received as often as needed, sign is the laying
on of hands and words.
2. Anointing of the Sick - priest performs, received more than once if needed; sign is anointing with oil
and words.
Sacraments of Vocation (Commitment)
1. Marriage - performed by bride and groom, received once, sign is exchange of promises.
2. Holy Orders - bishop performs, received once, sign is the laying on of hands.
THE TEN COMMANDMENTS
1. I am the Lord your God. You shall not have other gods besides me.
2. You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain.
3. Remember to keep holy the Sabbath day.
4. Honor your father and mother.
5. You shall not kill.
6. You shall not commit adultery.
7. You shall not steal.
8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor.
9. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife.
10. You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor.
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DUTIES OF A CATHOLIC CHRISTIAN
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Celebrate Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
Confess your sins at least once a year.
Receive the Eucharist at least during the Easter season.
Fast and abstain on the days appointed by the Church.
Contribute to the Church to provide for its material needs.
BEATITUDES
1. Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
2. Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted.
3. Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land.
4. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied.
5. Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
6. Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God.
7. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called the children of God.
8. Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of
heaven.
LIVING BIBLICAL PRINCIPLES
“Today too there is a need for disciples of Christ who give
unstintingly of their time and energy to serve the Gospel. There is
need for young people who will allow God’s love to burn within
them and who will respond generously to his urgent call, just as
many young blesseds and saints did in the past and also in more
recent times.” Pope Benedict XVI, Message for WYD, 2008
a
How does one follow the road of discipleship today?
What special principles and values must a follower of Jesus Christ
take on in order to have God’s love burn within them so brightly that others will actually see the
light? The best answer of course is found in the Scriptures, mainly in the Gospels, specifically
through the words and deeds of Jesus himself. This is where the saints of yesterday and today
began and it’s where all young disciples should also start. And while there are many admirable
qualities, principles, and attributes that can be gleaned from the Gospels, here are six that will
serve as a solid foundation for would-be followers of Jesus to begin to build their lives around:






See God in Everything
Trust in God Always
Stand Up for the Poor and Vulnerable
Be Courageous
Serve Humbly
Share the Faith
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BEING CATHOLIC
There is an estimated one billion Catholics living in the world. That is about 17 percent of the
world’s population. There are more Catholics than there are people in any other Christian
denomination. There are also more Catholics than there are Jews, Hindus, or Buddhists- only
Muslims have more members. The great number of Catholics in the world testifies to
Catholicism’s universal appeal and to the power that the Catholic faith has in people’s lives.
This section of The Catholic Youth Bible provides only a quick view of Catholic beliefs,
practices, and attitudes. It does not offer in-depth explanation as to why Catholics believe or
practice what they do. For an in-depth exploration of the Catholic faith, you may wish to
purchase The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth, Second Edition, by Brian Singer-Towns
(Saint Mary’s Press, 2008) from which the content of this section has been adapted.
Core Catholic Beliefs

God created human beings to be in perfect union with God and one another. However,
the sin of our first parents—original sin—deprived the human race of our original
holiness and justice.

Throughout human history, God worked to restore the relationship of love and trust that
was lost through original sin. God did this by entering into covenants—special
relationships based on mutual promises—with Noah, Abraham and Sarah, and the people
of Israel. But the people often broke their covenant promises.

Ultimately God sent God’s only begotten son, Jesus Christ, as savior for the human race.
Christ was both fully God and fully man. He became the perfect sacrifice for the
forgiveness of sins and the restoration of the relationship of love and trust between God
and humankind.

Following his death, Jesus was brought back to life in the Resurrection! Christ overcame
death and opened heaven’s gates for all the just.

The Holy Spirit has been at work in the world from the beginning of creation to the
present day. The Holy Spirit is one with the Father and the Son, and is also called the
Advocate (Paraclete) and the Spirit of Truth.

God has revealed God’s self to be Trinity—that is, the mystery of one God in three divine
persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This mystery cannot be arrived at by reason but
was revealed by Jesus Christ.

Christ established the Catholic Church on the foundation of the Apostles. Christ and the
Holy Spirit revealed the fullness of religious truth to the Apostles. The fullness of God’s
revealed truth is called Sacred Tradition and is entrusted to the Apostles’ successors, the
bishops of the Church.

The Bible, or the Sacred Scriptures, is another source of God’s revealed truth for
Catholics. The Bible is closely connected to Sacred Tradition. The Holy Spirit inspired
the authors of the Bible to write what God wants us to know for our salvation.
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
All people are destined for eternal life after death. The baptized who have put their faith
in Jesus Christ as their savior will find their eternal reward in heaven. Those who have
rejected Christ will find their eternal punishment in hell.
Core Catholic Attitudes

Catholics recognize that God is present to, in, and through all creation—including the
natural world, persons, communities, and historical events. For Catholics all creation is
sacred and has the potential to be a source of God’s grace.
 Catholics place their trust in the essential goodness of the human person, who is made in
the image of God, even though flawed by the effect of original sin.
 Catholics appreciate both faith and reason, both religion and science. Reason can lead to
faith.
 Although the fullness of truth resides in the Catholic Church, Catholics seek to recognize
and affirm the aspects of God’s revealed truth that is shared with other religions and all
people of good will.
 Because the human person is saved by participating in the community of faith—that is,
the Church—rather than by existing as an isolated individual, Catholics emphasize
community life and communal worship.

Catholicism respects the great diversity of cultures in the world and is committed to
proclaiming the message of Jesus to all people in all cultures at all times.

Catholics respect and embrace a wide variety of spiritualities and prayer forms.
Core Catholic Practices
 Catholics celebrate seven sacraments that form the basis of their worship, or communal
prayer, together. The seven sacraments were instituted by Christ and entrusted to the
Church to make the love of God real and present in the world.
 The sacrament of the Eucharist is the heart of the Catholic Church’s life. In the
sacrament, Catholics literally receive the Body and Blood of Christ in the appearance of
bread and wine.
 Sunday, or the “Lord’s Day,” is the principal day for the celebration of the Eucharist.
Catholics keep the day holy by attending Mass and resting from work, in honor of
Christ’s Resurrection.
 Catholics follow a special calendar with all the feasts and holy days of the liturgical year.
The special seasons of Advent and Lent prepare them to understand God’s great love,
which is celebrated at Christmas and Easter.
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 Catholics place a strong emphasis on living morally, because they believe they are called
to new life in the Holy Spirit. The moral code for this new life is based on the Ten
Commandments and the Beatitudes.
 Catholics defend the dignity of human life, and Catholic morality is often described as
pro-life. Catholics are opposed to anything that threatens the sanctity of human life,
including abortion, euthanasia, capital punishment, and human cloning.
 Serving people in need and working to transform society are essential elements of
Catholic life. The Church is called to be a sign of God’s Perfect Kingdom yet to come,
by working for justice and human rights in this life.
 Catholics honor the great people of faith who have preceded them: the saints, and in a
dear and special way, Mary, the mother of Jesus.
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CONFIRMATION PROJECT
Each Confirmation student, preparing for Confirmation in 2013 is asked to complete a paper on
the topics listed below.
METHOD
Take each question in order and write your answer as best you can. There is no right or
wrong answer. If your handwriting is difficult to read, as mine is, than type it on the
computer.
This is not a test. It should be done by you as the Confirmation candidate based on the
learning experiences you have had for the past five and one half years.
Confirmandi are urged to do this project on their own without the help of parents if
possible. Thought is encouraged. These are not questions you will have memorized
answers for.
The list of questions is as follows. Please answer all parts of the question. Answer each one in
order. Number your answers.
1. How do I see myself after Confirmation? Will my life change in any way? If so,
how?
2. Will my relationship with the Catholic Church change after Confirmation? If so,
how?
3. Please list the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit. What Gift of the Holy Spirit is most
important to you? Why? How do you think the gifts of the Holy Spirit will play a
part in your life after Confirmation?
4. What is your understanding of the corporal works of mercy? If this is what Jesus
wants you to do, how will you respond to His call?
5. What do you believe Jesus wants of you as a young adolescent?
6. What does service to others mean to you? Why is service part of the Confirmation
process?
7. What has been your most meaningful service opportunity over the past year?
8. Would you say Confirmation is the beginning or end of your instruction in the
Catholic Faith? Why?
Your completed project is to be handed into your Catechist no later than the week of April
8, 2013.
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ST. CYRIL OF JERUSALEM PARISH
CONFIRMATION DATA SHEET
[Please type or print. Information is used in Official Church book and must be accurate]
Candidate’s Name:
________________________________________________________________________
[Last]
[First]
Confirmation Name:
_______________________________________________________________________
Age: ______
Church of Baptism:
________________________________________________________________________
Address:___________________________________________________________________
City: _______________________________ State: __________ Zip: __________
Date of Baptism:
________________________________________________________________________
Address of Candidate:
___________________________________________________________________
___________________________________________________________________
School Candidate Attends:
___________________________________________________________________
Father’s Name: __________________________________________________________
Mother’s Name:________________________________________________________
[Maiden Name]
Sponsor’s Name:
________________________________________________________________________
Parish: _______________________________________________________________
[Name]
[Address]
Relationship to Candidate:
_______________________________________________________________________
 Yes
Certificate of Eligibility Received
 No
Sponsors must go to the church where they are a member and ask for a Letter of Eligibility for Confirmation.
If the sponsor is a member of St. Cyril’s Parish, an eligibility certificate is not needed.
PLEASE COMPLETE AND RETURN BY THE WEEK OF NOVEMBER 26, 2012
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Letter of Request to Msgr. Powell and Bishop
A letter of request is written by the candidate seeking Confirmation. It should include a statement
of why the candidate wants to be confirmed and it should contain a statement of intention to live
out faithfully the responsibilities that are appropriate as a confirmed member of the Church. The
letter should be submitted typed, on 8 ½ x 11 paper with a full business heading. A suggested
format is below. Please forward completed letter to your Catechist no later than the week of
February 4-6, 2013.
Student’s address
Date
Bishop
Monsignor Robert Powell
St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catholic Church
1410 Almshouse Road
Jamison, PA 18929
Dear Bishop and Msgr. Powell,
I,
, a member of St. Cyril’s Parish, am completing the program of preparation
for Confirmation. I request the privilege of being confirmed into the Catholic Church because…
(complete as a full paragraph)
As a full member of the Church, I promise to strive to ….
(complete as a full paragraph)
I chose the name …
(statement as to the name you chose)
For service, I … (discuss your favorite service and why)
You may add personal information regarding family, sports, school, favorite subject, etc.
I trust you will grant my request to be confirmed and look forward to seeing you on my
Confirmation Day.
Respectfully,
Type and sign your name
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Catholic/Private School Confirmation Information

Please see important dates calendar on pages 6-7

Commitment Sunday is to be attended by ALL Confirmandi and at least one parent at St. Cyril’s.

Sacramental Sunday is to be attended by ALL Confirmandi and at least one parent at St. Cyril’s.

Service is a critical component of Confirmation preparation. Projects should be selected not on the basis of
ease and to get it our of the way, but on the basis of the Gospel call to service and what it can teach the
Confirmandi about the Church’s social mission, the social nature of the Gospel and the call of Jesus “to
serve one another.” If you wish to look at the service journal we provide please call me. You will also find
a listing of service projects on page 13. Additionally we hope to organize service projects for our
confirmandi during the course of the year. Should you wish to volunteer as a service coordinator please let
me know.

Confirmandi are expected to have their sponsor chosen and the data information paperwork completed and
turned in DIRECTLY TO THE PREP OFFICE at St. Cyril’s by the week of November 26th 2012.

Students should provide their research paper outlining the reason why a particular Saint’s name is chosen to
their teacher at Nativity by November 15th. They will be forwarded to me by the PREP office at
Nativity. Students attending other Catholic Schools should mail or bring in this information the week of
November 26th. Additional information on putting this paper together can be found on page 8 and 9 of this
booklet.

Students are requested to provide us with a Baptismal certificate unless baptized at St Cyril’s.

Candidates will wear red robes to signify the connection with the coming of the Holy Spirit upon the
Apostles and their commissioning by Christ to go forth and spread the Good News to all people. All
students are to dress appropriately, that is no sneakers, jeans. Boys are to wear dress shoes, shirt, and tie
and dress pants. Girls are to wear dress shoes, a dress or skirt. Parents are also asked to dress appropriately
as are sponsors and all family members and friends in attendance.
The Confirmation fee for Catholic School Students is $30.00. There are materials that we use in
Confirmation Preparation that are included: Fireside Youth Bible, Service journal, FAQ’s about
Confirmation. Should you wish to have these materials for your child please let Deacon Joe Owen know.
Fee is due from our Catholic/private school parishioners by October 1, 2012.

The Confirmation project should be completed by your child and handed into the office by the due date.

The letter to Msgr. Powell and Bishop requesting Confirmation should be completed by the week of
February 4th. Please MAKE TWO COPIES AND SEND BOTH TO NATIVITY, NATIVITY WILL
FORWARD ONE COPY TO US. Students in Catholic school other than Nativity should forward this letter
directly to us. Information on this letter can be found in this booklet on page 27.

Catholic school students will make their Confirmation retreat with their respective classes or with us on
November 8th at the St. Cyril. If you wish your son/daughter to make their retreat with us please notify us
by the middle of August as retreat information will be mailed to all families at that time.
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