What is Confirmation?
Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism. Through the laying on of hands and anointing with sacred chrism, the candidate is strengthened by the Holy Spirit and called to witness to Christ through their words and lives.
For young people, it is an opportunity to make their own response to the faith into which they were baptised—not merely because they have reached a certain age, but because they are choosing to continue growing as members of the Catholic Church.
Who is it for?
At Sacred Heart, children usually prepare for Confirmation during Year 6.
Children attending a Catholic school normally undertake their sacramental preparation through the school and parish.
Children who do not attend a Catholic school, or who are older than the usual year level, are warmly invited to contact the parish so that suitable preparation can be arranged.
CONTACT THE PARISH →The journey to Confirmation
Preparation
Candidates learn more about Jesus, the Holy Spirit, prayer, the Church and the meaning of the sacrament.
Choosing a saint and sponsor
Each candidate chooses a Confirmation name and a suitable sponsor who will support them in living their faith.
Celebrating the sacrament
The candidate is presented to the bishop or priest, renews their baptismal promises and is anointed with sacred chrism.
Frequently asked questions
Confirmation is usually celebrated in Year 6 (or later for those in high school) when the candidate has completed their preparation. The date is set each year by the Bishop.
Enrolments are usually open earlier in the year. Please watch the parish newsletter, website and schools for enrolment dates and information sessions.
Children who do not attend a Catholic school are most welcome to prepare for Confirmation through our parish program. We will support you on this journey.
Candidates may keep their own name or choose the name of another canonised Saint or Blessed whose life and example inspires them to grow in faith.
A sponsor must be at least 16 years old, fully initiated in the Catholic Church (Baptism, Confirmation and Eucharist), and living a life consistent with the Catholic faith.
No. A parent cannot be a sponsor for their own child. Another suitable Catholic may be chosen, or a baptised Catholic godparent is often a meaningful choice.
We will ask for basic information about your child and family, including Baptism details (if not baptised at our parish) and sponsor information.
Candidates are encouraged to dress neatly and respectfully. Many choose to wear something special for this important celebration.
Ready to take the next step?
Whether your child attends a Catholic school or needs parish-based preparation, we would be glad to help your family prepare for Confirmation.
