Becoming Christ’s Witnesses: Youth Confirmation Program
Our Youth Confirmation Program is a comprehensive, two-year journey designed to deepen young people's understanding of their Catholic faith and prepare them to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. The program meets 2-3 times a month on Wednesday evenings, providing a structured, engaging, and faith-filled experience for young Catholics as they grow in relationship with Christ and His Church.
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is one of the three Sacraments of Christian Initiation, along with Baptism and the Eucharist. Through this sacrament, the Holy Spirit comes upon our young people in a profound way, strengthening the graces they received at Baptism and empowering them to be active and courageous witnesses of Christ. Inspired by Acts 2, the story of Pentecost, we prepare our youth to receive the same Spirit that filled the Apostles, equipping them to go forth and live their faith boldly in the world.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) explains that "Confirmation brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace" (CCC 1303), meaning it strengthens the bond between the individual and the Church and infuses them with gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Our program embraces this vision, forming youth to live these gifts in their daily lives.
Our Program: A Journey of Faith
Our program uses proven resources that guide youth in faith formation through dynamic and interactive materials:
- Chosen: Your Journey to Confirmation (Ascension Press): This engaging curriculum helps youth understand the Catholic faith, the sacraments, and their call to live as disciples of Christ.
- YOU: Theology of the Body (Ascension Press): Rooted in the teachings of St. John Paul II, this program explores the beauty of human dignity, sexuality, and God’s plan for our lives. It equips youth to understand themselves and their purpose through God’s eyes.
- Altaration: The Mystery of the Mass Revealed (Ascension Press): This course dives into the beauty and significance of the Mass, helping youth appreciate and participate more fully in the Eucharist as the “source and summit” of our faith (CCC 1324).
- Additional Sacramental Preparation: In addition to these resources, we explore other rich teachings on the Holy Spirit and the Sacrament of Confirmation, helping candidates gain a complete understanding of this life-changing sacrament.
Encountering Christ in Eucharistic Adoration
Each month, we come together for Eucharistic Adoration, where our youth can spend time in the real presence of Christ. This holy time allows them to grow in personal prayer and reflect on their relationship with Jesus, fostering a deep sense of love and reverence for the Eucharist. As Pope St. John Paul II once said, “From the Eucharist comes strength to live the Christian life and zeal to share that life with others.”
A Community of Faith and Support
In addition to catechetical instruction, we offer opportunities for fellowship, service, and reflection, helping candidates to grow in faith alongside their peers. Whether serving the community, participating in group discussions, or enjoying social gatherings, our youth find a supportive community that celebrates the joy of Christian friendship.
Preparing for a Lifetime of Faith
The Sacrament of Confirmation is not just a milestone but a commissioning. We encourage each candidate to embrace their role as “soldiers of Christ,” an image highlighted by the Church Fathers. They are called to be beacons of faith, embodying Christ’s love in their families, communities, and schools. As Isaiah 11:2 reminds us, they will receive the Spirit of the Lord — a spirit of wisdom, understanding, counsel, and strength that will guide them throughout their lives.
Program Highlights
- Classes: Held 2-3 Wednesdays per month
- Resources: Chosen, YOU, Altaration, and other Catholic resources
- Eucharistic Adoration: Monthly time for personal prayer and reflection before the Blessed Sacrament
- Community & Fellowship: Activities that build faith-centered friendships and a sense of belonging
- Service Projects: Opportunities for candidates to live out their faith by serving others<