"Baptism, the Eucharist, and the sacrament of Confirmation together constitute the 'sacraments of Christian initiation," whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful that the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For "by the sacrament of Confirmation, [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed.'" CCC 1285

"Confirmation perfects Baptismal grace; it is is the sacrament which gives the Holy Spirit in order to root us more deeply in the divine filiation, incorporate us more firmly into Christ, strengthen our bond with the Church, associate us more closely with her mission, and help us bear witness to the Christian faith in words accompanied by deeds." CCC 1316

Preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation is ongoing after receiving First Holy Communion.  Classes being in the fall for 8th grade students who have attended an approved religious education program with regular attendance for two years prior to the sacrament.  In addition to regular catechetical classes, candidates are required to attend weekly Sunday Mass, attend a Confirmation retreat, and attend a discernment meeting with the pastor.

Sponsors for each candidate must be practicing Catholics, at least 16 years of age, who have received the sacraments of Baptism, Eucharist, and Confrimation.  If married, the sponsor must be in a valid Catholic marriage.