The Sacrament of Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Initiation. Confirmation strengthens what was received through Baptism with a special outpouring of the Holy Spirit which unites us more firmly with Christ. It also increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit (wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord) within us.
At Confirmation, the bishop (or delegated priest) anoints the candidate with oil and lays his hands upon them saying, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” The oil used in Confirmation symbolizes strength and its beautiful perfume reminds us that we are called to spread the fragrance of Christ at home, in our parish and in our world.
Confirmation is a continuation, ratification or sealing of Baptism and it helps us to focus on the missionary dimensions of our baptismal commitment. It gives us special strength through the Holy Spirit to spread and defend the faith. It confirms our commitment both to the Church and to the work of Christ in the world. Like Baptism, Confirmation is received only once.
For youth, Confirmation is generally celebrated in grade 8 at the Cathedral of Saint Andrew. Adult confirmations are based on individual needs. Contact Katie Parker for more information.
Confirmation Contact:
Elizabeth Post, Staff
616.538.2600
Middle School Confirmation
MS Confirmation Prep
The Confirmation preparation process is a journey of learning to seek and respond to the Holy Spirit. It is developing a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ and assuming a role in the greater Church community. Our primary teacher is the Holy Spirit. Faithful adult leaders and high school peer ministers will provide direction, reflection and concrete activities, which aim to help us better understand the Holy Spirit.
The middle school EDGE program is used in conjunction with our Sacrament of Confirmation preparation. This is a two-year program that begins in 7th grade and is completed with the entrance into high school. Through a variety of teaching methods, middle school teens engage in large group learning, small group discussions, community and team, skits, music, activities, games, various prayer forms and much more. In addition to the regular EDGE nights, the teens participate in service opportunities and retreats. All programing and events are designed to foster the youths’ growth in their personal relationships with Christ and his Church.
MS Confirmation Dates
Preparation 2025-2026
Fall Semester
- MS Edge: Scheduled Sundays (see calendar) (80% attendance required)
- Parents & Candidates: weekly Mass attendance
- Personal Interview with Elizabeth (7th grade in the fall)
- Parish Wide Service Day: Saturday October 4 (optional but counts for fall service)
- Middle School “Fall” Retreat:
- Guys and Girls Separate Nov 14-15 (time TBA)
- MS Service Day: Saturday Nov 1, 2025 (pilgrimage)
- Choose a sponsor: Sponsor sheet due by November 9, 2025 (8th graders)
- Sponsor Night (8th graders): Wednesday Dec. 3, 2025 6-8pm Candidate and Sponsors Required
Spring Semester
- MS Edge: Scheduled Sundays (see calendar)
- Service Day: Mar 21, 2026 –
- SPX Confirmation Retreat: February 7-8, 2026 (8th grade) Saturday -Sunday
- Rite of Entrance: Sunday February 8, at 10:30AM Mass (Sponsor required from 8:30-11:30a)
- Letter of Intention: Sunday Mar 15, 2026 (8th grade)
- Personal Interview with Elizabeth (sign up for a time)
- Choose a Saint’s name and write a short biography him/her: (8th grade)
- Know the Apostles Creed: March 15 (all)
- Participate in Station of the Cross during Lent (TBA)
Immediate Preparation
-
Immediate Preparation @ MS Edge: Sunday in Sept-Apr.
-
Discern sponsor
-
Weekly Mass participation
Sacrament of Confirmation: Cathedral of St. Andrew, Date TBA (8th grade)
(For announcements on final dates/times pay attention to emails/notices/bulletin)
*The retreats are required events. Contact Elizabeth if you have a conflict.
MS Confirmation Paperwork