The Confirmation preparation process begins in grade 10, but reception of the sacrament is for those in the 11th grade or older. A candidate must have been baptized in the Catholic Church or have been validly baptized in another Christian denomination and received into Full Communion in the Catholic Church. If baptized at St. Stephen's, the certificate is not needed. The family of the candidate must be registered at the parish, or the candidate can register independently.A candidate must choose a sponsor. The sponsor must be a confirmed practicing Catholic who is at least 16 years of age. The sponsor may not be the father or mother of the candidate. We urge the candidate to choose someone who is a good role model and who lives close by so he or she can participate in the program with the candidate and lend spiritual support to the candidate. A candidate may choose a Confirmation name. This name must be the name of a canonized saint. The candidate will write a paragraph on that saint. Prior to the Rite of Confirmation, the following should be completed:

1. Candidates, parents & sponsors attend an orientation meeting in Sept. and a Mass of Commitment of the 2nd year of preparation.
2. The candidate participates in an interview to explore the person's readiness for Confirmation.
3. Attend a 6 session course on Confirmation preparation.
4. Attend 2 courses in the High School Rel. Ed. Program (for those in public school).
5. Attend 2 seminars on current Church topics over a two year period.
6. Make a commitment of service. (An individual or group service in 10th or 11th grade.)
7. Participate in a Confirmation retreat.
8. Attend the rehearsal for the Confirmation ceremony.

Send mail to ststephens@adelphia.net with questions or comments about this web site.
Copyright © 2007 Saint Stephen's Parish
March 12, 2008