The Church must make every effort to ensure that adolescents do not view their preparation for and reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation as the end of their formal catechesis.  They must be encouraged to continue to particpate in faith formation programs, the celebration of Sunday Eucharist, and the practice of Christian living." 
                                National Directory for Catechesis

The Sacrament of Confirmation seals the baptized with the "Gift of the Holy Spirit" to strengthen the ability to live a life in obedience to God and the Church.  

An exciting time for adolescents and the Church, Immediate Preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation focuses on:
        ♦the Person of the Holy Spirit
        ♦holiness and lifestyle in relationship to the Holy Spirit
        ♦personal and communal prayer
        ♦Sacramental life in the Church
        ♦Christian mission and outreach

The Candidate may request the Sacrament if he/she:
        •  is baptized and able to renew baptismal promises
        •  exhibits an active faith life and knowledge of the Church **
        •  participates in the sacramental life of the Church, especially Eucharistic 
           liturgies
        •  is willing to commit to active involvement in parish confirmation
           catechesis
        •  is willing to respond to the call of active ministry
        •  is willing to continue to learn and grow in faith following confirmation
           and throughout his/her lifetime    
                                                           Archdiocesan Confirmation Guidelines

**Adolescents entering into Immediate Preparation for Confirmation should be in at least their sophomore year of high school and receiving catehesis in a parish or Catholic school environment at least the two years prior to the immediate preparation for reception of the Rite of Confirmation.  Immediate Preparation for the sacrament begins in late spring each year.  

At Sacred Heart, Confirmation is celebrated with a Bishop each November.