“The reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace …By the sacrament of Confirmation [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit”

(Catechism of the Catholic Church, #1285)

The Sacrament of Confirmation is many times referred to as the Sacrament of the Holy Spirit. Before Jesus died, He promised that the Holy Spirit would come upon the Apostles and the Church. On the Feast of Pentecost, the Spirit came upon the Apostles, as they went out boldly preaching the mighty works of God. Over 3,000 people were baptized in water and the Spirit, and the Church was born.

The Sacrament of Confirmation is performed by the laying on of hands and the anointing with oil called Sacred Chrism. The ordinary celebrant for the Sacrament of Confirmation is the Bishop, although delegation can be given to the pastor.

The Diocese of Gaylord has restored the order of the sacraments, in which Confirmation is celebrated before receiving the Eucharist.

St. Mary of the Assumption celebrates the Sacraments of Reconciliation, Confirmation, and Eucharist in the second grade. It is required that all candidates participate in two years of faith formation prior to receiving these sacraments. In addition to the regular faith formation classes, a monthly sacramental preparation class for students and parents is required during the second year.

For more information concerning the Sacrament of Confirmation or Sacramental Preparation, please contact the parish office.