The sacrament of Confirmation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church. It completes baptism and reinforces the graces received at baptism, by conferring the gift of the Holy Spirit. Confirmation marks a decisive moment in the spiritual life of a Christian: it calls them to live their faith to the full and to become an active witness to Christ. This sacrament, rich in symbolism and spirituality, is an essential stage in the Christian journey.
1. The biblical origins of confirmation
a) The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament
The presence of the Holy Spirit is evoked as early as the Old Testament, where it is presented as the breath of God that gives life and strength:
The creation: "A breath of God hovered over the waters" (Genesis 1:2).
The prophets: They receive the Spirit to pass on the word of God (Ezekiel 36:26-27).
b) Institution by Jesus Christ
Jesus promises the gift of the Holy Spirit to his disciples to strengthen them in their mission:
"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you; then you will be my witnesses." (Acts 1:8)
At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended on the apostles in the form of tongues of fire, filling them with courage and wisdom (Acts 2:1-4). This event is considered the founding moment of confirmation.
c) Apostolic practice
The apostles lay hands on the newly baptised to impart the Holy Spirit:
"Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit." (Acts 8:17)
2. The spiritual significance of confirmation
a) A strengthening of baptismal graces
Confirmation completes and perfects baptism. While baptism introduces the Christian into the divine life, confirmation equips him to live his Christian vocation to the full.
b) An outpouring of the Holy Spirit
The sacrament confers the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, strength, knowledge, piety, and the fear of God. These gifts help the Christian to face life's challenges with faith and courage.
c) A missionary vocation
Confirmation marks the sending out on mission. The confirmed person is called to be a witness to Christ in the world, to proclaim the Gospel and to live his or her faith boldly.
d) A deeper belonging to the Church
Confirmation strengthens the Christian's links with the ecclesial community, calling him or her to participate actively in the life of the Church.
3. The symbols of confirmation
a) Laying on of hands
The bishop or priest lays hands on the confirmed person, symbolising the transmission of the Holy Spirit. This gesture dates back to the apostles and expresses the divine power at work in the sacrament.
b) Anointing with the holy chrism
The consecrated oil (chrism) is applied to the forehead of the confirmed person, marking their belonging to God. This anointing is a sign of consecration, strength, and spiritual joy.
c) The sacramental words
The celebrant pronounces, "Be marked by the Holy Spirit, the gift of God." These words express the grace transmitted by the sacrament.
d) The sign of peace
The bishop gives the confirmed person the sign of peace, symbolising communion with the Church and the call to spread Christ's peace in the world.
4. The rite of confirmation
a) Preparation
Candidates for confirmation undergo a period of spiritual preparation, called catechesis, to deepen their faith and understand the meaning of the sacrament.
b) Celebration
Confirmation is often celebrated at a solemn Mass. The main stages include:
The renewal of baptismal promises:The confirmed renounce evil and profess their faith.
The laying on of hands:The celebrant prays for the Holy Spirit to descend upon the confirmed.
Anointing with holy chrism: Each confirmed person is marked with the sign of the cross with holy oil.
Universal prayer: The congregation prays for the confirmed and for the Church.
5. The effects of confirmation
a) Spiritual growth
Confirmation matures the faith of the baptised and helps them to live in accordance with the teachings of Christ.
b) Strength to witness
The sacrament gives courage to defend the faith in the face of the trials and challenges of the world.
c) A more intimate union with the Holy Spirit
The gifts of the Holy Spirit enable the confirmed person to discern God's will and to walk in His ways.
6. The role of the godparent
The godparent accompanies the confirmed person on their spiritual journey, being an example of faith and a support in difficult times.
7. Confirmation for children and adults
a) Confirmation for children
In the Latin Catholic Church, Confirmation is generally administered to adolescents, the age at which they are capable of making a personal commitment in the faith.
b) Confirmation for adults
Adults who were not confirmed during their youth can receive this sacrament after suitable preparation.
8. Confirmation and the Christian mission
a) An active faith
Confirmation invites Christians to participate actively in the Church's evangelising mission.
b) A call to holiness
The sacrament reminds us that every Christian is called to holiness, living according to the Christian virtues and serving others.
9. Conclusion : A sacrament of spiritual fulfilment
The sacrament of Confirmation is an essential stage in the Christian life. It confers the strength and gifts needed to live as a disciple of Christ and witness to the Gospel in the world. Through this sacrament, Christians are fully integrated into the ecclesial community and equipped to respond to its missionary call. Confirmation is a source of joy, grace and hope for all those who receive it with an open heart.
