Education in Faith
What is the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Rooted in the Latin word confirmare—meaning "to strengthen"—Confirmation completes the graces first received at Baptism. It is not a "graduation" from faith formation, but rather a powerful equipping of the Holy Spirit to help our students live as brave, loving, and active members of the Church and their local community.
The Gifts of the Holy Spirit
During the sacrament, candidates pray for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit's gifts. These seven gifts provide the daily strength they need to make good choices and stand up for what is right:
- Wisdom to see things as God sees them.
- Understanding to grasp the truths of our faith.
- Counsel (Right Judgment) to make good and moral choices.
- Fortitude (Courage) to overcome challenges and defend their faith.
- Knowledge to know God and their place in the world.
- Piety (Reverence) to grow a deeper love for prayer and worship.
- Fear of the Lord (Wonder and Awe) to recognize the greatness and love of God.
What Happens During the Ceremony?
During the celebration Mass, the Bishop leads the congregation in renewing their baptismal promises. The candidates receive two outward signs of this spiritual milestone:
- The Laying on of Hands: The Bishop extends his hands over the candidates, invoking the Holy Spirit.
Anointing with Chrism: The Bishop anoints the candidate’s forehead with holy oil, saying, "Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit."
Our Students’ Journey
As our students prepare for this beautiful milestone, please keep our Confirmation candidates and their families in your prayers. It is an exciting time of learning, reflection, and spiritual growth as they choose a patron saint who inspires them and take on the responsibility of being a true witness to Christ.
The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated by The Parish of Christ the Light on Saturday 8 August at Marymede Catholic College, Doreen. This holy milestone completes the graces first received at Baptism through the strengthening power of the Holy Spirit.
Culmination of Faith and Learning
Ahead of the ceremony, our candidates will participate in a reflective retreat day. This dedicated time of prayer, community, and deeper learning serves as the culmination of their spiritual preparation and faith formation.
Please Keep Our Candidates in Your Prayers
As our students complete their journey toward this beautiful milestone, please keep them and their families in your prayers. We look forward to gathering as a community at Marymede Catholic College to celebrate their public commitment to Christ and the Church.
