Sacraments

This information pertains to families with students enrolled in the CCD program.

(This content is being updated.)

The age for the celebration of the sacrament of confirmation (except for adults) will be the early years of high school between fourteen (14) and sixteen (16) years. A minimum of two (2) years of formal religious education is to precede preparation for the sacrament of confirmation. Confirmation is part of a four-year high school catechetical program and the celebration of the sacrament can take place anytime within that period for those who are adequately prepared. (Diocese of Austin policy on confirmation, 2011)

CANON LAW 890 
The faithful are obliged to receive this sacrament at the proper time. Parents and pastors of souls, especially pastors of parishes, are to take care that the faithful are properly instructed to receive the sacrament and come to it at the appropriate time.

CCC 1309 
Preparation for Confirmation should aim at leading the Christian toward a more intimate union with Christ and a more lively familiarity with the Holy Spirit—his actions, his gifts, and his biddings—in order to be more capable of assuming the apostolic responsibilities of Christian life. To this end catechesis for Confirmation should strive to awaken a sense of belonging to the Church of Jesus Christ, the universal Church as well as the parish community. The latter bears special responsibility for the preparation of confirmands.

QUALIFICATIONS OF CANDIDATES
Be baptized and able to renew baptismal promises Exhibit an active faith life and knowledge of the church Participate in the sacramental life of the church, especially the Mass. Commit to an active involvement in the parish confirmation catechesis Respond to the call to active participation in the Church. Continue to learn and grow in faith following confirmation and throughout their lifetime.

ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARENTS
“As the primary educators of their children: parents are to be intimately involved in the catechesis for Confirmation. This will help them renew and strengthen their own faith, besides enabling them to set a better example for their children.” (NCD, no. 119)

CANON LAW 1136 
"Parents have the most serious duty and the primary right to do all in their power to see to the physical, social, cultural, moral, and religious upbringing of their children."

PARENTS SHOULD EXPECT TO:

• Serve as a spiritual companion and advisor to your child.

• Parents should attend catechetical sessions provided by the parish for your own faith formation and to assist and encourage your child.

• Model responsible and active church membership for your child.

• Worship with your families regularly on Saturday or Sunday and holy days of obligation.

• Be actively involved in the Confirmation preparation of the candidate.

• Engage in discussions about the material being studied including sharing your understanding and perspective.

• Encourage your child to reflect and thoughtfully consider the decision to receive the sacrament of Confirmation.

• Pray for your child’s spiritual growth every day.

• Emphasize the importance of the sacrament of Confirmation by taking an active part in the celebration of Confirmation.