Resources for Confirmation
Information and resources related to the Sacrament of Confirmation
Welcome,
To the parents, pastors, clergy, and lay catechetical leaders who are involved in Confirmation preparation – thank you! We learn in the Catechism that “Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading the Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit – his actions, his gifts, and his biddings – in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life.” This is important and beautiful work; we are grateful for your efforts.
You have likely heard that the Cardinal decided to lower the normal age of reception of the sacrament of Confirmation in the Archdiocese of Boston from around the age of 16 (or 10th or 11th grade) to around the ages of 13-14 (or 8th grade).
What follows is a set of resources and information to help you implement this change within your parish. As the Cardinal points out in his letter, the Secretariat for Evangelization and Discipleship supports parishes throughout the Archdiocese; don’t hesitate to reach out for guidance on navigating this change in the age for Confirmation and with your efforts to evangelize and catechize people of all ages.
Come Holy Spirit!
Bishop Cristiano B. Barbosa
Cabinet Secretary for Evangelization and Discipleship
Bishop Mark O’Connell
Vicar General
You may read text of the official decree, the January 18, 2024 Letter from the Cardinal, and the Pilot article announcing the change.
Archdiocesan Confirmation Guidelines
Confirmation Age Change Information
The Cardinal has decided to lower the normal age of reception of the sacrament of Confirmation in the Archdiocese of Boston from around the age of 16 (or 10th or 11th grade) to around the ages of 13-14 (or 8th grade).
It is expected that it will be possible for parishes to request additional Confirmation dates with Episcopal Vicars and Bishops through May 2027. While it is also possible for pastors to request delegation to convey the sacrament of Confirmation to account for the need for additional Confirmations, the preference is to request additional dates. The expected phase-in period is 3 years and pastors have discretion on how they may wish to manage the change in their parishes until May 1, 2027.
Who can receive the Sacrament of Confirmation?
A baptized Catholic who desires to be confirmed, is properly disposed and suitably instructed for the sacrament, and able to renew his or her baptismal promises may receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. In the Roman rite, unless in danger of death or the episcopal conference states otherwise, the sacrament is to be bestowed at about the age of discretion (around age 7). In the United States, the episcopal conference permits each bishop to set an age for his diocese between 7 and 16. In the Archdiocese of Boston, the sacrament is to be bestowed around the ages of 13-14. “Sacred ministers cannot deny the sacraments to those who seek them at appropriate times, are properly disposed, and are not prohibited by law from receiving them” (CIC, c. 843 §1).
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1306; CIC, cc. 889-891
What does it mean to be “suitably instructed” and “properly disposed” for the Sacrament of Confirmation?
“Proper disposition” refers to a baptized Catholic in good standing and in a state of grace (that is, not aware of any unconfessed mortal sins). “Suitably instructed” refers to evangelical and catechetical instruction that pastors and other members of the Christian faithful provide at their discretion, along with any norms established by the archdiocese or episcopal conference.
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1319; CIC, cc. 843 §2; 889 §1-2; GCSPD, n.18
What is required to be considered “suitably instructed” and prepared to receive Confirmation in the Archdiocese of Boston?
The Archdiocese of Boston does not require more than the Church’s universal guidelines: a baptized person in good standing and a state of grace who has reached the age of discretion requests the sacrament. The person also understands – in a manner appropriate to his or her age or capacity – that: 1. a sacrament is an outward sign of inward grace instituted by Christ and 2. the Sacrament of Confirmation perfects baptismal grace; and 3. the sacrament gives the Holy Spirit to incorporate us more firmly into Jesus Christ, strengthen our bond with the Church, associate us more closely with her mission, and help us bear witness to the Christian faith in words accompanied by deeds.
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1285-1321; CIC, cc. 843 §2; 889 §1-2; GCSPD, n.18
When should the Sacrament of Confirmation be given?
In the Archdiocese of Boston, the Sacrament of Confirmation is to be bestowed normally around 8th grade when adolescents are 13 or 14 years old (by May 1, 2027). But there is no obligation to be confirmed at this age. For this reason, parishes should expect to receive and prepare candidates for Confirmation who request to receive the sacrament at an older age.
An individual person may request permission from his or her pastor to receive Confirmation between the ages of 7 and 13. In the case of children in danger of death, any priest has the faculty to administer confirmation and should exercise it even for children who have not yet reached age 7.
Parishes may request permission to maintain a 10th – 11th grade Confirmation reception timeline. All requests will be taken seriously but will be granted on a case-by-case basis. Please submit any such request in writing to Bishop Cristiano Barbosa through Patrick Krisak and Diane Campbell.
Church Guidelines: CIC, cc. 883 §3, 891
Are there reasons to delay Confirmation for individual persons?
If someone is not properly disposed, suitably instructed, or able to renew their baptismal promises then he or she or the pastor may determine that a delay in reception of the sacrament is necessary. If a person feels pressured or forced to make his or her Confirmation, there is reason to delay it. If someone does not wish to receive a sacrament, then they are not properly disposed and cannot be forced to receive it. At the same time, pastoral accompaniment for someone who must delay the reception of a sacrament is encouraged so that they may grow in habits of Christian life and desire to receive the sacrament.
Church Guidelines: CIC, cc. 889-891
What is the role of the parish and pastor?
The parish is where the sacrament ordinarily takes place. The parish and pastor (along with other clergy, staff, and catechists) should support, accompany, and equip parents to prepare their children for the sacraments. The parish offers catechetical instruction to help parents form and nourish the confirmation candidate to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. The pastor is responsible for determining that each candidate is properly disposed, suitably instructed, and able to renew his or her baptismal promises.
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1306, 1309-1311; CIC, cc. 776-777, 881, 890, 895; DDW
What is the role of parents or guardians in preparing their children for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Parents are the primary educators of their children. The Church recognizes it is the parents first, and then the pastors, who decide a candidate is ready for Confirmation. Parents can and should pray with their children at home, be involved in or lead their children’s catechesis for the sacrament, and participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church with their family. For ideas and guidance on how your parish can support parents in preparing their children for the sacraments, contact the Faith Formation & Missionary Discipleship team.
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1309, 1653; CIC, c. 774; OC, 3; DDW; DC, n. 124
Who can be a sponsor and what is the role of a sponsor?
A sponsor helps the candidate grow as a disciple of Jesus Christ by being a model and guide to personal discipleship. The sponsor must be a baptized Catholic over the age of sixteen who has received all the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation), lives a life of faith, is not cohabitating outside of a sacramental marriage, if married has received the sacrament of matrimony in the Catholic Church, is not bound by any imposed or declared canonical penalty, and is not a parent of the candidate. It is desirable to choose as a Confirmation sponsor one’s baptismal sponsor (godparent) to emphasize the unity of the two sacraments. Whether a godparent is chosen as a sponsor or not, an individual’s godparents are encouraged to support the candidate and provide witness to their faith.
Church Guidelines: CCC, 1311; CIC, cc. 774 §2, 874 §1 °1-4, 892-893; OC, 5-6
How long should catechetical instruction take to prepare for this sacrament?
The norm in the Archdiocese of Boston for the preparation of the reception of Confirmation at age 13-14 is no less than 6 months and no more than 2 years. At the same time, it is not permitted to delay the reception of Confirmation because a candidate has not taken part in a set number of classes or years of formation if they are otherwise suitably instructed, properly disposed, and able to renew their baptismal promises. This timeframe is not required for adult Confirmation candidates, for whom the length of preparation is at the discretion of the pastor but should not exceed 2 years.
Church Guidelines: CIC, c. 889 §1-2
What is required for Confirmation of a child above the age of discretion who has not been baptized?
If someone is not baptized but is above the age of discretion (age 7, also known as the age of reason), they must be prepared for and receive all of the Sacraments of Initiation together according to the OCIA adapted to their age, even if their age is closer to the archdiocesan age for Cofirmation.
Church Guidelines: CIC, cc. 852 §1, 866; OCIA, ns. 14, 215, 252-259
National Guidelines: NSC ns. 18-19
What is the difference in preparing an adult for Confirmation versus an adolescent?
Although the requirements for receiving the sacrament are the same, how preparation is carried out should be discerned with pastoral care and prudential judgment. An adult who has already been prepared for and received the Sacraments of Baptism and Holy Communion should not be confused with a catechumen (who has never been baptized). Baptized adults need a different preparation experience than a catechumen and should not be included in OCIA, which is only for the unbaptized.
Church Guidelines: OC, 3; OCIA, ns. 400, 402, 506, 535, 549, 565
National Guidelines: GCSPD, n. 18; NSC ns. 30-31
Is it permissible for parents to prepare their children for Confirmation at home without parish instruction?
Yes, given the primary role parents play in the faith of their children. Pastors are required to offer catechetical instruction to the faithful but parents may or may not choose to have their children participate in those offerings. Pastors are responsible for ensuring candidates for Confirmation are properly disposed and suitably instructed, but this does not mean that pastors can impose participation in parish Confirmation preparation offerings.
Pastors should meet with candidates to get to know the families, learn more about the desire of the candidates for Confirmation and faith, and offer advice and guidance on what is required for candidates to be suitably instructed and properly disposed to receive the sacrament of Confirmation.
Church Guidelines: CCC,1309-1311, 1653; CIC, cc. 774, 776; DC, n. 124; DDW
How should parishes provide Confirmation preparation for Catholic school students?
In the case of students who attend a parish Catholic school, pastors have the discretion to permit preparation for Confirmation to take place in the school and the parish or to keep confirmation preparation solely in the parish.
Pastors have the freedom to decide whether to permit their parishioners to pursue confirmation preparation through independent Catholic schools not affiliated with the parish. Parishioners should contact pastors if they wish to pursue confirmation preparation at an independent school but should not expect such requests to be granted in all cases. In the case of candidates whom pastors permit to prepare for Confirmation at an independent school, pastors are encouraged to require the candidates to participate in some aspect of Confirmation preparation at the parish to foster the young person’s connection to his or her parish, be that a retreat, prayer service, or other similar event or gathering. Pastors and their parish faith formation leaders (including confirmation preparation catechists) should exercise pastoral care in these situations to help the family feel part of the parish without burdening them unnecessarily or repeating formation in the parish that candidates already received in the school.
Church Guidelines: CIC, c. 843 §1-2
What should be included in the preparation of a candidate for the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Any program of formation should not be limited to catechetical or academic formation but also include invitation and instruction on how to participate in the life of the Church as an expression of lived faith in the person of Jesus Christ. It should not be expected that candidates for Confirmation have memorized particular prayers or information on the Christian life such that they might be able to repeat them back or pass a test on the information. The expectation is that candidates have an earnest desire for the sacrament, openness to living a Christian life, and have been exposed to catechetical instruction and Christian practice at some point leading up to or during their preparation.
Church Guidelines: CCC 1309; CIC, c. 889-891; GCSPD, n.18
What role do retreats and Christian service play in Confirmation preparation?
A retreat should be offered as part of the preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation but it is not permissible for a pastor or parish to require participation in a retreat as a condition for receiving the sacrament. No parish or diocese is permitted to establish requirements or particular law that exceeds the universal law of the Church and impedes the fundamental right of the faithful to receive the sacraments. Therefore, a parish cannot require participation in a retreat before someone receives the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The same is true for service hours. Service hours cannot be required because service is not required for receiving the sacrament. However, parishes should offer Christian service opportunities to candidates as part of their preparation. Appropriate catechesis should accompany these offerings to help the candidates understand the importance of service and know how to continue serving after their Confirmation. Candidates should also learn how to maintain and grow in their relationship with Jesus.
Church Guidelines: CIC, cc. 889-890; DDW
What are the guidelines for choosing a confirmation saint name?
At Baptism, we receive a Christian name. Many young people find it beneficial to enhance their private devotion and Christian practice through choosing a saint name while preparing for Confirmation, which is encouraged. The name should be of a canonized saint or blessed in the Catholic Church but does not need to be from a saint of the same sex as the candidate for Confirmation. It is not permitted to require a candidate to choose a saint name and there is no need to choose another name because there is no mention of using a special confirmation name in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, Code of Canon Law, or Order of Confirmation.
Should Confirmation take place within a Mass?
Yes. However, whether your parish’s celebration of Confirmation takes place within the context of a Mass is a conversation the pastor should have with the bishop or priest celebrating the Confirmation.
Church Guidelines: CIC, c. 881
Should robes be used for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation?
For the Archdiocese of Boston, robes are permitted but not required.
How should we let the Bishop know the name of each candidate?
Our bishops prefer to be shown an index card with the name of each person to be confirmed and hear the sponsor announce the candidate’s name. It allows them to clearly see and hear the name before using it in the rite, avoiding any miscommunication.
Do our candidates need to send a letter to the Bishop?
Parishes and individual bishops may request letters from candidates; there is no archdiocesan requirement and the Church does not state anything on this topic.
How does a parish request additional Confirmation dates?
It is expected that it will be possible for parishes to request additional Confirmation dates with Episcopal Vicars and Bishops through May 2027 using the normal process. While it is also possible for pastors to request delegation to convey the sacrament of Confirmation to account for the need for additional Confirmations, the strong preference is to request additional dates rather than delegation.
Confirmation Age Change FAQ for Parents
The Cardinal has decided to lower the normal age of reception of the sacrament of Confirmation in the Archdiocese of Boston from around the age of 16 (or 10th or 11th grade) to around the ages of 13-14 (or 8th grade). If you have particular concerns or questions as a parent, parish faith formation leader, or member of the clergy which you would like to see addressed that are not in the document at this time, then please do not hesitate to contact us. (Contact info is available in the bottom tab on the left.)
Parents, families, and Confirmation candidates: please understand that your parishes did not receive notice of this change before you did and that they need time to discern and implement a plan for this change in your parish. The expected phase-in period is 3 years and pastors have discretion on how they may wish to manage the change in their parishes until May 1, 2027.
You may read text of the official decree, the January 18, 2024 Letter from the Cardinal, and the Pilot article announcing the change.
How can the age of Confirmation change? Doesn’t the Church require a certain age for Confirmation?
Both the Rite of Confirmation and the Code of Canon Law set the age of discretion (age 7) as the age for Confirmation unless the episcopal conference sets another age. The U.S. episcopal conference (USCCB) designated the age for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation in the United States to be between the age of discretion (age 7) and age 16. Local bishops may determine their own policies within that range.
In other dioceses, Confirmation is offered at a different age. Why is the ordinary age for Confirmation being moved to 8th grade in the Archdiocese of Boston?
As mentioned above, each bishop is responsible for setting the age of Confirmation in his diocese. In exercising his authority to determine the age of Confirmation in the Archdiocese of Boston, the Archbishop considers many factors and relies on the advice and experience of many people.
The current age of grade 8 (age 13-14) is a recognition that the experience of young people and their families has changed in recent years. Students in middle school are equipped to receive sacramental instruction and will benefit from receiving the sacramental grace and outpouring of the gifts of the Holy Spirit before high school. By making this change Cardinal Seán hopes to facilitate a renewal of family engagement in the life of the parish, especially Sunday Mass, and a renewal of youth ministry within parishes, that goes beyond sacramental preparation.
Who was involved in making this decision?
The decision to change the age of Confirmation was Cardinal Seán’s, acting in his role as Archbishop of Boston. Cardinal Seán formed two separate committees and asked them to research the subject and provide recommendations. Committee members included a diverse group of priests, parents, theologians, parish and school leaders, and representatives from various ethnic communities within the archdiocese.
The first committee was formed in 2017 and consulted widely with other dioceses, discovered best practices, sent out surveys regarding the age for Confirmation, and recommended changes to the current practice in the Archdiocese of Boston. The committee provided its report and recommendations to the Cardinal right before the COVID global pandemic, which prevented action from being taken.
After the pandemic, the Cardinal appointed a second committee, again comprised of a diverse group representing parish and school leaders, parents, clergy, and cultural communities. This committee reviewed the work of the first committee and then provided its own report to the Cardinal. Cardinal Seán also consulted his presbyteral council, an advisory body of priests from throughout the archdiocese. Cardinal Seán considered the recommendations of both committees and the presbyteral council in deciding to change the age of Confirmation.
How will this change in age impact the current preparation program for Confirmation at the parish?
Parishes will need to adjust their sacramental preparation programs in ways that are appropriate for the new age of Confirmation. This may include changes to curriculum as well as schedules. Some parishes will be able to make changes quickly, but others may need more time to transition. The Cardinal has asked that all parishes have changes completed by May 2027.
Do I as parent have any say in when my child is confirmed? What if I do not feel that my 8th grader is ready to be confirmed?
Yes. Parents are the primary educators of their children. Parents should pray with their children at home, be involved in or lead their children’s catechesis for the sacrament, participate regularly in the sacramental life of the Church with their family, and be involved in determining when their child requests the sacrament. Pastors ultimately have the responsibility to ensure that candidates of any age have been adequately prepared prior to the reception of the sacrament.
Are parents allowed to prepare their children at home to receive Confirmation?
Yes. As noted above, parents are the primary educators of their children and have the right (and duty) to form their children in faith, including preparing them to receive the sacraments. Pastors must offer catechetical instruction, but parents may or may not choose to participate in those offerings. Pastors ultimately have the responsibility to ensure that candidates of any age have been adequately prepared prior to the reception of the sacrament. This responsibility does not mean that pastors can require participation in parish confirmation preparation offerings.
My child attends a Catholic School; can preparation take place at school?
In the case of students who attend a parish Catholic school, pastors have the discretion to permit preparation for Confirmation to take place in the school and the parish or to keep confirmation preparation solely in the parish.
Pastors have the freedom to decide whether to permit their parishioners to pursue confirmation preparation through independent Catholic schools not affiliated with the parish. Parishioners should contact pastors if they wish to pursue confirmation preparation at an independent school but should not expect such requests to be granted in all cases. In the case of candidates whom pastors permit to prepare for Confirmation at an independent school, pastors are encouraged to require the candidates to participate in some aspect of confirmation preparation at the parish to foster the young person’s connection to his or her parish, be that a retreat, prayer service, or other similar event or gathering.
Are most 8th grade children able to make an adult commitment to the Church?
This question reflects a common misconception that the Sacrament of Confirmation signifies maturity and adult commitment to the Church. The maturity that is required for receiving any of the sacraments of Christian initiation is only what is age-appropriate. The Church expects that a candidate preparing to be confirmed has a basic understanding of what the sacrament is and that they freely seek to receive it. To celebrate Confirmation requires nothing more by way of age-appropriate maturity than to receive the Eucharist. An authentic, mature commitment to Christ and the Church is expressed in lifelong participation in the Eucharist and apostolic life of the Church.
What if my child has a disability or requires special learning accommodations? Are they able to be prepared for and receive the Sacrament of Confirmation?
Yes. Candidates of varying mental and intellectual abilities are encouraged to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Often these candidates and their families need the support of the parish community and grace of the sacraments. You should work closely with your pastor and parish faith formation leader to determine how best to accompany your child as he or she prepares for the sacrament. They will coordinate with the bishop to plan an appropriate celebration of the sacrament. If necessary, the sacrament can be offered in ways other than a large-group Mass or ceremony.
If children are confirmed in 8th grade rather than in high school, won’t they drop out of faith formation?
We hope not, though it is possible. Parents play a crucial role in whether or not they do. Confirmation has been misunderstood and often mistakenly viewed as graduation from faith formation. Growth in understanding and living out of our faith is the result of a lifelong effort. Parents have the first responsibility of being an example of Jesus Christ to each other and living the Gospel each day. Children are more likely to stay connected to the faith if they see their parents striving to grow in holiness through family prayer, scripture reading, Sunday Mass, regular Confession, and living a life of service and charity.
How will this age change affect high school youth ministry?
This change provides an opportunity for parishes to revitalize high school youth ministry. The Sacrament of Confirmation has sometimes been misused to motivate attendance. This approach risks teens feeling they are captives and being forced to attend meetings. The sacrament is one of initiation into Christian discipleship. Confirmation is not the end but a beginning, not graduation but initiation into a life of continued growth in the faith. Removing sacramental preparation from high school ministry allows parishes to evangelize, build teens up through formation, and send them out to minister and live as disciples of Jesus Christ.
What will happen to my high school aged children that have not yet been confirmed?
There is a three-year implementation process, May 2024 – May 2027. Pastors and parish staff members will determine their own timeline for the transition. Possible models for this transition will be provided to pastors and parish staff. The goal is that the normative age for Confirmation will be eighth grade by 2027.
How can I help my child prepare for Confirmation? What is my child expected to know before Confirmation?
The best way for you to prepare your child for Confirmation is to let him or her see you living out your faith in an authentic way at home. Prioritizing participation at Sunday Mass, praying together and openly discussing faith as a family is the foundation for passing faith on to your child. It is less about what your child needs to know and more about him or her recognizing the invitation to have a relationship with Jesus and participate in the larger church community.
Confirmation: Suggested Transition Timelines
Parishes in the Archdiocese of Boston have until May 1, 2027, to complete their transition from the normal age of Confirmation being around the age of 15-16 (grades 10-11) to around the age of 13-14 (grade 8). Pastors of parishes may exercise their discretion in how they manage the transition period between 2024 and May 2027.
- Some parishes have indicated that they will not be making any changes within the next year in order to prepare and plan for implementing this change.
- Some parishes have begun designing and implementing a period of transition to the new normative age to implement over time.
- Some parishes have chosen to offer Confirmation to more young people starting in the spring of 2024 with the intention of adjusting to the new normative age sooner rather than later.
Parish leaders have requested some suggested models or timelines for implementing this transition. Below are three possible models for consideration, roughly following the transition plans mentioned above.
3-Year Confirmation Transition Process
Overview
- 1 Confirmation date in 2025, up to 2 in 2026, and up to 2 in 2027
2025
- Confirmation of 10th graders (who are in 9th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2025 as usual
2026
- Confirmation of 10th graders (who are in 8th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2026 as usual
- Confirmation of 9th graders (who are in 7th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2026
- May require requesting 1 additional Confirmation date in spring or fall 2026 depending upon the number of candidates
2027
- Confirmation of 9th graders (who are in 6th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2027
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 5th grade in 2024) in 2027
- May require requesting 1 additional Confirmation date in 2027 depending on the number of candidates
2-Year Confirmation Transition Process
Overview
- 1 Confirmation date in 2025, up to 2 in 2026, 1 in 2027 and after
2025
- Confirmation of 10th graders (who are in 9th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2025 as usual
- Confirmation of 9th graders (who are in 8th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2025
- May require requesting 1 additional Confirmation date in spring or fall 2025 depending upon the number of candidates
2026
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 6th grade in 2024) and 9th graders (who are in 7th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2026
- May require requesting 1 additional Confirmation date in spring or fall 2025 depending upon the number of candidates
2027
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 5th grade in 2024) in 2027
1-Year Confirmation Transition Process
Overview
- Up to 3 Confirmation dates in 2025, 1 in 2026 and after
2025
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 7th grade in 2024), 9th graders (who are in 8th grade in 2024), and 10th graders (who are in 9th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2025
- After a period of preparation in 2024-2025
- May require requesting 2 additional Confirmation dates in spring or fall 2025 depending upon the number of candidates in each grade
2026
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 6th grade in 2024) in spring or fall 2026
- Transition has been completed in 2 years
2027
- Confirmation of 8th graders (who are in 5th grade in 2024) in 2027
Suggested Formation for Confirmation
This document provides a brief overview which can be used as a guide for preparing candidates of any age for Confirmation. It should be adapted depending upon the circumstances of the candidates – their age, previous formation, and other similar factors. Some candidates may have already received extensive catechetical formation and be actively practicing the habits of the Christian life. Some candidates may have received little previous catechetical formation and may not be actively practicing their faith. A parish must consider how best to account for these differences through the formation it offers. For more information on required confirmation preparation timelines, please see the decree announcing the change in the normative age of reception and the Archdiocesan Confirmation guidelines document.
Any program of formation should not be limited to catechetical or academic formation but also include invitation and instruction in how to participate in the life of the Church as an expression of lived faith in the person of Jesus Christ. It should not be expected that candidates for Confirmation have memorized particular prayers or information on the Christian life such that they might be able to repeat them back or pass a test on the information below. The expectation is that candidates have an earnest desire for the sacrament, openness to living a Christian life, and have been exposed to some of the information and practices below at some point leading up to or during their preparation.
General Formation Leading up to Confirmation Preparation:
1. Personal Commitment to Faith in Jesus Christ
- Who is Jesus Christ and what is His Good News?
- Incarnation, Ministry, Paschal Mystery, Mission, Salvation/Redemption
- Review of the Trinity: Father, Son, and Spirit
2. Having a Catholic Prayer Life
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- Developing habits of Catholic Christian prayer
- Including both individual and communal prayer
- Introduction to types of Christian Prayer such as
- Rote Prayer
- Prayer with Scripture
- Liturgical Prayer
- Intercessory Prayer
- Devotional Prayer
- Meditative Prayer
- Extemporaneous Prayer
- Developing habits of Catholic Christian prayer
3. Belonging to the Catholic Church
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- The four marks of the Church
- The mission of the Church
4. Encountering Christ in the Sacraments
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- Understanding the Seven Sacraments
- Sacraments of Initiation, Healing, and Service
5. Living the Catholic Christian Moral Life
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- Catholic Moral Life
- 10 Commandments
- The Beatitudes
- Catholic Social Teaching
- Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy
- Catholic Moral Life
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6. Regular Reception of the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Communion
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- What is reconciliation and why is it necessary and important?
- The Rite of Penance: Examination of Conscience, Contrition, Confession, Absolution, Penance
- What is the Eucharist? How can we encounter Christ in the Eucharist and at Mass? Why is regular attendance at Mass necessary and important?
- Understanding the Mass: Introductory Rite, Penitential Rite, Liturgy of the Word, Liturgy of the Eucharist, Dismissal
Immediate Preparation for Reception of Confirmation:
- Who is the Holy Spirit?
- Gifts of the Holy Spirit
- Fruits of the Holy Spirit
- Role of the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Church
- Role of the Holy Spirit in the Life of every Christian
- The Sacrament of Confirmation
- The Rite of Confirmation
- Renewal of Baptismal Promises
- Laying on of Hands
- Anointing with Chrism: Being Sealed with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
- Role of the Sponsor
- Life After Confirmation
- Living as a follower of Jesus: sacramental life, prayer life, moral life, and Christian community
- Participating in the life of the Church
- Accepting your role as being on mission to proclaim Christ to the world
- Understanding the role of the Baptized as Priest, Prophet, and King
Summaries of Available Curricula
Available Confirmation Curricula
Below please find links to various available curricula for preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation for those in grades 6-8. While this list is extensive, we are aware that it does not list all available options. We welcome your suggestions and feedback on the following and other available curricula. If available, you’ll also find below links to recordings of curricula overviews publishers hosted for the Archdiocese of Boston or individual contact information for you to reach out for more information.
Ascension Press – Chosen (Eng, Span)
Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries – Zeal
Ignatius Press – Image of God: Spreading and Defending the Faith: Confirmation
Ignatius Press – YouCat Confirmation Book and Handbook
Life Teen – Purpose
Loyola Press – Adaptive Confirmation Preparation Kit
Loyola Press – Confirmed in the Spirit (Eng, Span)
Midwest Theological Forum – The Sacrament of Confirmation
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- Contact Laura Ehrhardt at 630-541-8519, ext 24; laura@mwtf.org
Our Sunday Visitor – Call to Celebrate Confirmation for Younger Adolescents
Pflaum – Gifted with the Spirit: Confirmation for Junior High
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- Contact Dave Barocsi at 315-794-4928; dbarocsi@pflaum.com
Sadlier – Believe Celebrate Live: Confirmation (Eng, Span)
Saint Mary’s Press – Anointed in the Spirit
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- Contact Carol Hunger at 507-457-7926; chunger@smp.org
Saint Mary’s Press – Called to Mercy
Sophia Institute Press – Sealed in Fire Confirmation Preparation Student and Teacher
YDisciple – More than a Confirmation Curriculum
Drop-in Zoom Meetings:
Those who lead Confirmation preparation are invited to join any or all of the following drop-in meetings with the Faith Formation and Missionary Discipleship team to discuss the implementation of the change in age of Confirmation, ask questions, and share ideas. Meetings will be held on the second Thursday of each month September-December at both 2-2:30pm and 7-7:30pm.
Afternoon sessions:
September 12th, October 10th, November 14th, and December 12th
2-2:30pm
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87160032579?pwd=MEeEqccrAYbil8e0lBWo1JncaTvlK4.1
Evening sessions:
September 12th, October 10th, November 14th, and December 12th
7-7:30pm
Zoom link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82159764755?pwd=2kxXKpA8XENJkFFg7vVYnHIcYc7Z6u.1
Requests for Exceptions to the Normal Age of Confirmation
It is possible for individual people and parishes to request exceptions to the normative age of reception of the sacrament of Confirmation at age 13-14 in the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Boston. Please see below for information on what to include in such a request as a parish or individual candidate.
Parish Requests for Exceptions to the Normal Age of Confirmation
Parishes, collaboratives of parishes, and particular cultural communities may request to continue offering Confirmation at the age of 16. Requests are taken seriously but will be granted in limited and particular circumstances only. Requests from parishes, collaboratives, or communities should include:
- A brief description of your current confirmation preparation process including information on the curriculum used; the expectations or requirements placed on candidates, sponsors, and families; the faith formation leaders and catechists involved; the typical average and current number of participants; how you define success for your preparation process; and information on how you are monitoring that success
- A brief description of your grades 1-8 faith formation offerings including information on the curriculum, expectations for participants and families, and structure of paid and volunteer leadership
- A brief description of your high school youth ministry offerings including information on the goal, structure, participants, and leadership
- An explanation for why you believe maintaining reception of Confirmation at the age of 16 for your parish, collaborative, or community is in the best interests of your parish and the candidates for Confirmation with a particular emphasis on their continued engagement in the life of the faith, growth in discipleship, and participation in the parish or faith community.
Please submit requests in writing addressed to Bishop Cristiano Barbosa and send them to Patrick Krisak and Diane Campbell.
Individual Requests for Exceptions to the Normal Age of Confirmation
Individual people (preferably in cooperation with their families) aged 7 to 13 may submit a request to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation before the normal age of 13-14 to their parish pastor. Pastors should take such requests seriously but may or may not grant them. Pastors are welcome but not required to consult their regional Episcopal Vicar or the Secretariat for Evangelization and Discipleship when considering such requests.
Requests from individual candidates should include:
- A brief personal and spiritual biography – please include your name, age, school, parish, a brief description of personal and family habits of prayer, mention of personal hobbies or interests, and some information about personal and family participation in aspects of Christian life including but not limited to activity in your parish
- Indication of support from your parents/guardians and family, if possible, which can be noted in the request from the candidate or included as a separate letter
- Indication of support from your parish faith formation leader or catechist, if possible, which can be noted in the request from the candidate or included as a separate letter
- An explanation for why you are making this request and your understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation
Music for First Communion and Confirmation
A Catechetical Guide for Liturgical Celebrations
Confirmation in The Catechism in a Year with Fr. Mike Schmitz
Interested in listening to someone read and comment on what the Catechism of the Catholic Church has to say about Confirmation? Join Fr. Mike Schmitz as he reads and comments!
Confirmation Listening Sessions
The Archdiocese of Boston hosted 7 listening sessions in February and March 2024 with parish clergy and faith formation leaders to hear from them on the following questions:
- What does it mean to be prepared to receive the sacrament of Confirmation?
- What opportunities does this change present for family and youth ministry in your parish?
- How can the archdiocese support you throughout implementing this change?
Faith Formation Leader Resources
Patrick Krisak’s Bio
Patrick has worked for the archdiocese since 2014. He works in the areas of faith formation, ethnic communities, pastoral planning, evangelization, discipleship, and leadership. Patrick has worked previously in parishes in the Archdiocese of Boston and elsewhere as a Director for Evangelization, Director of Religious Education, and Coordinator of Youth Ministry. He and his wife have two sons.
Patrick Krisak
Director of Faith Formation and Missionary Discipleship
Contact Patrick
Liz Cotrupi’s Bio
Liz is first and foremost, a daughter of God. She is married to her best friend, Tony, and enjoys his help with preparing couples for marriage. She has three adult children and loves being “Nana” to her grandkids. Liz started serving in ministry when her children were small as many moms do. Eventually, her pastor asked her to run the high school faith formation program. Equipped with a bachelor’s degree in business from Worcester State College, she knew she needed more theology. After certificates in catechesis and youth ministry, she moved on to get her Master of Theological Studies from Saint John’s Seminary. Before coming to the Archdiocese of Boston in 2016, Liz was the director of youth and young adult ministry for the Worcester Diocese. She has been blessed to serve on team for Cursillo, lead pilgrimages to Marian sites, and mission trips locally and abroad.
Liz Cotrupi
Director of Family Life & Ecclesial Movements
Contact Liz
Melissa Kalpakgian’s Bio
Originally from Texas, Melissa brings to the Boston area her southern hospitality and her “y’all.” Melissa has worked in evangelization efforts for the Church in some way, shape, or form in different areas of the country. Her fascination with St. John Paul II’s philosophical works led her to pursue a B.A. in Philosophy from the University of St. Thomas in Houston and her M.A. in Thomistic Philosophy from the Center of Thomistic Studies. She is also certified in Catechesis of the Good Shepherd in Levels 1, 2, and 3. In her free time, she and her husband strive to discover the meaning of “taste and see that the Lord is good” (Psalm 34:9) in the various facets of life.
Melissa Kalpakgian
Evangelization Consultant
Contact Melissa
Rosemary Maffei’s Bio
Rosemary is originally from Hingham and, after living in Minnesota and Florida, returned to the area to attend Boston College. After graduating with a degree in Marketing and Human Resources, Rosemary made Boston her home and enjoyed work in human resources roles within financial services for over a decade.
In response to the Lord’s call to use her leadership and organizational development experience coupled with her love for Christ to serve the Church directly in her daily work, Rosemary pursued a Master of Arts in Ministry from the Theological Institute for the New Evangelization, complemented with study through Loyola University in Rome and the Theology of the Body Institute in PA, and joined the Archdiocese of Boston.
In addition to an interest in igniting a love for Christ in others through the new evangelization, she has a particular interest in the Theology of the Body, the dignity of human life, the intersection of faith and business, and the intersection of faith and culture. She loves visiting with the Lord in Eucharistic Adoration and meeting Him in each individual encounter until we see Him face to face!
Rosemary Maffei
Evangelization Consultant
Contact Rosemary
Wendy Meija’s Bio
Born in El Salvador, Wendy came to the United States when she was three years old, and ever since then, she has called Massachusetts her home.
Raised in a beautiful Catholic family, Wendy volunteered her teenage years to youth ministry and volunteered for mission trips locally and abroad.
Wendy earned a Bachelor of Arts in Communications from Northeastern University and later pursued a career in public relations. Today, Wendy has more than ten years of experience in the field of public relations.
In addition to her new role at the Archdiocese, Wendy continues to serve as an active member of St. Mary of the Annunciation in Cambridge, Massachusetts, along with her husband Deacon Franklin Mejia, and their two children, Gabriel and Isabella.
Wendy Rodriguez Mejia
Director of Multicultural Ministries
Contact Wendy
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