As Catholics, we are called, and Chosen, by God to affirm our faith in the Sacrament of Confirmation. Confirmation completes our "Initiation" into the Catholic Church. Preparation is a two year process that begins in 9th grade and continues through 10th grade. It includes small group meetings, weekly celebration of the Eucharist, service to others, and spending time with God in prayer. Additionally, candidates attend two Confirmation Retreats: one during the first year of preparation, and a second during the second year of preparation.
It is our desire that our youth in preparation for Confirmation grow to know, love and serve our wonderful and awesome God.
Our Program is a two-year preparation beginning in Grade 9, with the Sacrament bestowed in Grade 10.
Candidates meet in Small Groups led by a volunteer Catechist. In addition to Small Groups, there are also Large Groups (entire class) during each year and an all day Retreat, both in the first year and in the second year.
Though Confirmation I candidates attending Catholic School are not required to attend the Small and Large group meetings there are many who do in the Spirit of community with their Confirmation Candidate peers and with our parishes.
Confirmation II candidates attending Catholic School are required to attend both Small and Large Group meetings.
Just as God fed manna to Moses and the Israelites on their journey to the promised land, the student candidates and their parents will need spiritual nourishment for their journey. God provides this through the weekly celebration of Mass and reception of the Eucharist. Weekly attendance at Mass is a critical component in the preparation process.
*ALL Candidates must to attend Mass weekly. The 5:30pm Mass in particular engages the Confirmation Candidate through the Liturgy and participation as Lectors, Greeters, Offertory Collectors and Gift Bearers. Masses are assigned for each Small Group.
Acknowledging and developing our God-given talents is an on-going part of our individual faith journeys. Using these talents in the service of others is God's desire. During Confirmation preparation, we focus on gaining a deeper understanding of how we can help our Parish and Community. We are called to engage in Christian works of Service for those in need - as Jesus teaches:
For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others...
(Mark 10:45)
Our Christian Service centers around The Corporal Works of Mercy, found in the teachings of Jesus and give us a model for how we should treat all others, as if they were Christ in disguise. They "are charitable actions by which we help our neighbors in their bodily needs". They respond to the basic needs of humanity as we journey together through this life.
Each candidate must complete 3 Corporal Works of Mercy and pass in a Service Verification Form. Read more... Download Form...
Christian Service Sheet - Required
Each year of preparation candidates will complete a Service Sheet. This is to be filled out by candidate, validated by service site and reviewed with his/her Group Leader. The Service Sheet serves as a vehicle for initiating a dialogue with the Group Leader on the value of Christian Service and the Corporatl Works of Mercy.
A NOTE ABOUT CHRISTIAN SERVICE: Christian Service is not about dotting i's and crossing t's; of checking off the "done" list and then moving on. Christian Service is a way of living and sharing God's love. Christian Service during confirmation preparation is a way of cultivating, growing, and nurturing our Missionary Mandate received at our Baptism!
We embrace the Liturgy, participating in liturgical roles that develop skills that lead to full participation in the Liturgy in Ministries beyond the Confirmation Preparation experience. Christian Service is vital to deepening and growing in the faith: an act of love that reflects the Works of Mercy - be it Corporal or Spiritual.
Read more on Service Requirements.....
FEE: $30 payable by check to St. Agnes Parish, or you can pay online here: WeShare Online Giving
Confirmation II Retreat - March 15, 2020 - Download Permission
Confirmation I Retreat - March 22, 2020 - Download Permission
According to to Cardinal Sean O'Malley's directive, large celebrations of the sacraments will be postponed until we are able to gather and celebrate the Mass publicly. As soon as we are able to reschedule our three celebrations, candidates and their families will be notified.
If Confirmation Prep II candidates have not passed in the Confirmation Name Form or Sponsor Forms, please email a copy of them to pcolpitts@ReadingCatholic.org