The Sacraments
Confirmation
Sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit — the completion of Baptism and the beginning of a bold, mature discipleship.
The Sacrament
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation completes what Baptism began. In this sacrament, the Holy Spirit — given already at Baptism — is poured out in a new and fuller way, equipping the candidate with the gifts needed to live as a mature, committed disciple of Jesus Christ. The word “confirmation” means exactly what it says: the faith received at Baptism is confirmed, strengthened, and owned.
During the rite, the Bishop (or his delegate) anoints the candidate's forehead with sacred Chrism oil and says: “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This anointing is a sign of the Spirit's presence, as it was for the kings and prophets of the Old Testament. The candidate responds: “Amen.”
Confirmation is not a leaving ceremony — it is a beginning. The gifts of the Spirit given in this sacrament are meant to be used: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Confirmation calls us into an active, engaged life of faith.
Confirmation image
Photo to be provided
Gifts of the Holy Spirit
The Seven Gifts
Confirmation imparts the fullness of the Holy Spirit's gifts — transforming us from the inside out.
Wisdom
Understanding
Counsel
Fortitude
Knowledge
Piety
Fear of the Lord
Eligibility
Who is Confirmation For?
Young People — Year 9+
Our main programme is for young people in Year 9 (age 13–14) and above who have been baptised and made their First Holy Communion. We strongly encourage families to register their children early in Year 9.
Older Teenagers & Young Adults
Young people who missed Confirmation as teenagers can join a dedicated pathway. We welcome you wherever you are — there is no judgement about the gap, only joy that you are here.
Adults
Adults who have not been Confirmed (including converts who have been received into full Communion) typically receive Confirmation at the Easter Vigil alongside other sacraments. Please speak to Father [Name].
Preparation
Confirmation Preparation Programme
Our Confirmation programme is designed to help candidates encounter the living God — not just learn about him. It combines catechesis, prayer, service, and community.
How to Register
Get Started
To register for Confirmation preparation, contact the parish office or speak to Father [Name] after any Sunday Mass. Registration typically opens in September for that year's programme.
Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What age is Confirmation?+
In our Diocese, Confirmation is typically received in Year 9 (age 13–14) for young people. However, adults who have not yet been Confirmed are equally welcome to receive the sacrament — often alongside adult converts at the Easter Vigil. Please contact us to discuss your situation.
Do I have to choose a Confirmation name?+
In many traditions, candidates choose the name of a saint as their Confirmation name — a patron for their adult life of faith. This is not a strict requirement in England and Wales but is a beautiful and common practice. We encourage it as part of the preparation process.
Who can be a sponsor?+
Your Confirmation sponsor should ideally be your Baptismal Godparent if possible. If not, a suitable sponsor is a confirmed Catholic of good standing, at least 16 years old, who can accompany you on the journey of faith. A parent cannot be your sponsor.
What if I've missed some of the preparation sessions?+
Regular attendance at preparation sessions is important, but we understand that life is sometimes complicated. Please speak to the programme co-ordinator as early as possible if you have missed a session, and we will do our best to help you catch up.
Does the Bishop come to our parish for Confirmation?+
Confirmation is normally administered by the Bishop or his delegate. In our Diocese, Confirmation takes place either at the parish or at a central Deanery celebration. Details are confirmed with candidates and their families well in advance.
Be Sealed with the Spirit
Confirmation is an invitation to a deeper, bolder, more committed life of faith. Take the step.