WHAT IS THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION?
Through Confirmation, those who have been baptized are strengthened by the Holy Spirit and called to make a stronger commitment to live as witnesses to Christ in their words and deeds. Confirmation is one of the three sacraments of initiation, along with Baptism and Holy Communion.
Confirmation connects us to the larger, global Catholic Church. The bishops leads the faithful in a large geographical area (diocese) comprising many parishes. Through the action of the bishop, those who are Confirmed are joined in faith with that larger community. The oil with which he anoints them is blessed at a special Chrism Mass. Oils from that Mass are taken to all the parishes of the Archdiocese for the celebration of the sacraments during the year. Confirmation reminds us that we belong to the universal Church, and to a local diocese and parish.
Sacrament of Confirmation with the
Most Reverend Leonard P. Blair, Archbishop of Hartford
SENT FORTH TO WITNESS
At Confirmation, we are called to participate fully in the Church’s work and mission - calling all to the love of Christ and taking part in building up the kingdom of God on earth. Jesus was anointed by the Holy Spirit at his baptism by John in the Jordan River, and was sent forth, strengthened by the power of the Holy Spirit, to do the work of his ministry. Likewise, once Confirmed, we are “sent forth” to bear witness to Jesus’ death and resurrection, to serve others as Jesus served, and to be living members of his Church.
Sacrament of Confirmation with the
Most Reverend Juan Miguel Betancourt, Auxiliary Bishop of Hartford
PREPARING FOR CONFIRMATION IN SAINT JOHN XXIII PARISH
YOUTH: For youth in 9th grade and above seeking to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation, please contact Mrs. Monica Pang, our Director of Religious Education, (203) 934-5240.
ADULTS: For adults (age 18 and above) seeking to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation, please contact Patricia Boyne in our parish office, (203) 934-5249.