How to Make Confirmation
An ancient rite of both the Western and Eastern Christian churches, confirmation is a common sacrament of the Roman Catholic Church that marks the entry of a child -- or an adult -- into the life of the Church and makes them eligible to partake of the sacraments. Careful study and consideration is usually required to achieve confirmation. This is typically achieved by attending confirmation classes at a local parish church. Confirmation culminates in a ceremony whereupon the confirmant is received into the Church by a bishop.
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Instructions
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Approach your priest about confirmation classes. The schedule of classes is usually flexible, but ask in advance as said schedules are usually dictated by the number of confirmants applying. Completion of required coursework can be accomplished over the course of one to three years or as soon as 18 months, depending on the length and frequency of the classes.
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Turn in your baptism certificate to the leader of the confirmation class. This individual is known as the confirmation catechist.
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Choose a saint's name. In the Christian tradition, confirmants are given a saint's name during their confirmation ceremony and use it during liturgical events such as weddings or when receiving the Eucharist. The choice must be approved by your confirmation catechist or your priest.
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Look for a confirmation sponsor. Usually these are a person's godparents. Have their sponsorship approved by either the confirmation catechist or your priest.
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Fill out and turn in your confirmation packet. This will be issued to you during your first few classes. Among other things, it will require you to read over the Rite of Confirmation, a document that contains detailed information on the meaning of confirmation to the Church and its consequences.
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Make a full profession of faith and attend confessional. These will be scheduled according to your studies.
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Attend a confirmation retreat. Although this is not mandatory for all Catholics, it's a widespread practice and is usually offered as your confirmation studies come to a close.
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Attend confirmation practice. During this period you should also ready yourself for the rite of confirmation through prayer and contemplation.
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