Confirmation is one of the Seven Sacraments, which are the physical signs of God’s Grace in the world. Through Confirmation we receive the Holy Spirit who grants us the strength and ability to “run the race” and live the Christian mission. Though baptism makes us Christians, we still need to grow and become perfected in the Faith. Just as the Apostles became fearless and determined to spread the Gospel after they received the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, we too are granted the same outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Confirmation. The ordinary minister of Confirmation is the bishop, who places his hands over the heads of those being confirmed and prays for them to receive the Holy Spirit. He then applies Holy Chrism to their foreheads in the form of a cross. Chrism is a mixture of olive oil and balm, signifying strength and virtue, which has been consecrated by the bishop. Traditionally, the bishop then gives a light slap on the cheek to signify that the person is to “wake up” and be willing to suffer and strive for the proclamation of the Holy Gospel in the world. Confirmation essentially makes us soldiers to follow our king, the Lord Jesus, into the spiritual battlefield.
“John 14:16-17 “”I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth…”” Jesus promises the coming of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2:1-4 “”They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues…”” Seen as the model for the outpouring of the Spirit that Confirmation signifies.
Acts 8:14-17 Peter and John lay hands on baptized Samaritans so they receive the Holy Spirit. This is a key text showing Confirmation as distinct from Baptism.
Acts 19:5-6 Paul lays hands on believers, and they receive the Holy Spirit.
Acts 1:8 “”You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you will be my witnesses…”” Confirmation strengthens Christians for witness and mission.
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 “”He has put his seal upon us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.”” The Church sees Confirmation as a sealing with the Holy Spirit.
Ephesians 1:13 “”You were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit.””
Isaiah 11:2 “”The Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him: the spirit of wisdom and understanding…”” These gifts are associated with Confirmation.
Baltimore Catechism: Lessons 15 and 16″
Illustration by: Colton Rompala