About Confirmation Names
Confirmation names are a special part of the confirmation process for Roman Catholics, especially those in English-speaking countries. Before the ritual of being confirmed, those seeking confirmation choose to take a saint's name with whom they identify. After confirmation the confirmed can pray to the saint for guidance and protection.
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Significance
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Confirmation is a rite or sacrament in the Christian tradition. For Roman Catholics, confirmation usually occurs in early adolescence. Other Christian denominations place confirmation soon after baptism. Coming from the New Testament, confirmation is related to the receiving of the Holy Spirit by the apostles on Pentecost. At the time of confirmation, the Holy Spirit is thought to descend on the person and bestow spiritual gifts.
Features
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Roman Catholics going through confirmation choose a saint they feel an affinity for as their confirmation name. The patron saint then serves as their guide and protector. Choosing a confirmation name is not biblical and does not come from the official Catholic liturgical book. The custom originated in the United Kingdom and is also practiced in the United States, Germany and Poland.
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Types
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The set of confirmation names is as long as the list of saints that can be found in the resources section below. Some of the more popular confirmation names for girls are Mary, Teresa and Catherine. For boys they are Michael, Thomas and Francis.
Considerations
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The common advice for those trying to decide on a name is to research saint names and find one that fits their personality or spiritual goals. Those seeking confirmation are also encouraged to pray and seek a saint that is willing to guide them as they seek a closer relationship with God.
Benefits
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At the time of confirmation after a confirmation name is chosen, the confirmed is said to receive spiritual gifts from the Holy Spirit. These gifts include speaking in tongues, healing, discerning of spirits and prophecy.
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Resources
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Comments
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Where would your conformation name be recorded? Is conformation name and Patron Saint name the same?
