A PREPARATION GUIDE AND HANDBOOK FOR
THE SACRAMENT OF
CONFIRMATION 2017-2018
Contact: Casey Esser, Youth Minister
[email protected]
CONFIRMATION HANDBOOK 2017-2018 Table of Contents Letter from the Pastor......................................................................................................................... 1 What is a Sacrament? ......................................................................................................................... 2 What is the Sacrament of Confirmation? ........................................................................................... 3 Sacramental Preparation Tracks ....................................................................................................... 4 CALENDAR: Requirements and Year at-a-Glance ........................................................................ 5 Program Details .............................................................................................................................. 6-13 Confirmation Orientation Meeting .................................................................................................... 7 Confirmation Rites ............................................................................................................................. 7 Sponsor Selection & Responsibilities ................................................................................................ 8 Confirmation Saint Report & Choosing a Name ............................................................................... 9 Confirmation Retreat ....................................................................................................................... 11 Service Hours & Reflection ............................................................................................................. 12 Confirmation Exam.......................................................................................................................... 13 Clergy Interview .............................................................................................................................. 13 Service Opportunities ........................................................................................................................ 14 Logistics: Week-Of and Day-Of Details .......................................................................................... 15 Youth Ministry .................................................................................................................................. 17 Faith & Service (Middle School Youth Ministry) ........................................................................... 17 Servant Leadership Program (High school Youth Ministry) ........................................................... 17 APPENDIX: Checklist, Resources & Paperwork .......................................................................... 19 Confirmation Pledge Form & Baptismal Certificate – due June 5, 2017 Confirmation Sponsor Certification Form – due at retreat: Oct. 13 or Oct. 28, 2017 Confirmation Saint Report – due at retreat: Oct. 13 or Oct. 28, 2017 Letter to the Bishop – due Jan. 5, 2018 Confirmation Service Hours Log & Reflection Questions – due Jan. 5, 2018 Exam Study Guide – exam held Jan. 21-23, 2018
April 24, 2017 Dear Confirmation Candidates, Parents, and Sponsors, We welcome you as you journey toward the Sacrament of Confirmation. This Sacrament completes the Sacraments of Initiation, which are Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist. In the introduction to the Rite of Confirmation we are reminded that: “The baptized follow the path of Christian Initiation through the Sacrament of Confirmation, by which they receive the outpouring of the Holy Spirit who was sent by the Lord upon the Apostles on the Day of Pentecost. By this gift of the Holy Spirit the faithful are more perfectly conformed to Christ and are strengthened with courage to bear witness to Christ for the building up of his Body in faith and charity." We are looking forward to sharing this journey of faith with you as you prepare these young people to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. As you will see, Confirmation preparation involves faith learning, sharing, serving, fellowship, spiritual growth and requires the support of the entire Church. Each candidate will be given the opportunity to learn more about the Catholic faith and what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. Part of the preparation for Confirmation is the process of realizing that God chose you first. God made you unique with special gifts. At the moment of your Confirmation, it is essential that you, as a young adult, have entered it freely and decide if you are willing to: 1) Live as a committed Christian. 2) Put into practice what Jesus taught us. 3) Continue to seek knowledge and understanding about your faith and the teachings of the Church. Confirmation is not the “end” of your Catholic life or education, but rather it is an ongoing part of your life. It depends on you to continue to develop your faith. You need to accept it for yourself. Work to make a better Church; participate; make a change and remember the Greatest Commandment: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and love your neighbor as yourself.” The Sacrament of Confirmation strengthens the baptized and obliges them more firmly to be witnesses of Christ by word and deed and to spread and defend the faith. It imprints a character, enriches by the gift of the Holy Spirit the baptized continuing on the path of Christian initiation, and binds them more perfectly to the Church (Code of Canon Law, Canon No. 879). The following resource guide is provided to assist those preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation, as well as the expectations of parents and sponsors. This commitment involves the whole family and we ask that you carefully examine the expectations and communicate them to the young people and their families entrusted to your care. Welcome to the journey,
Fr. Ronald Potts 1
What is a Sacrament? According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, a sacrament is “an efficacious sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit.” (CCC 774, 1131)
An efficacious sign of grace All of the Sacraments include a form (words) and matter (objects and/or gestures) which confer the sacrament. These are observable signs which represent the reality of the sacrament, but they are also efficacious, meaning they do what they signify. For example, in Confirmation, the form is the words “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit,” and the matter is both the laying on of hands and the anointing with chrism. By these words and actions, the candidate receives the Sacrament of Confirmation.
instituted by Christ All of the seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church were instituted by Christ, and we can see them in the Scriptures. For example, Confirmation was instituted on the day of Pentecost, in the upper room where the apostles and Mary were hiding with the doors locked after Jesus’ death and Ascension. At his Ascension Jesus told them, “you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you” (Acts 1:8). On the day of Pentecost, a rushing wind filled the house, tongues of fire appeared over their heads, and they were all filled with the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which led them to go out and proclaim the gospel, converting thousands on a single day.
entrusted to the Church Jesus instituted the Catholic Church upon the foundation of Peter, the first Pope. He and the other apostles were the first bishops, who continued the Sacred Tradition of the Sacraments. Though other Sacraments may be conferred by deacons (Baptism) or priests (Eucharist, Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick), certain ones are reserved to the Bishop under normal circumstances (Confirmation, Holy Orders).
divine life is dispensed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit All of the Sacraments are instruments through which we receive grace. This is “the free and undeserved help that God gives us to respond to his call to become children of God, adoptive sons and daughters, partakers of the divine nature and of eternal life” (CCC 1996, cf. John 1:12-18, 17:3, Romans 8:14-17, 2 Peter 1:3-4). “The grace of Christ is the gratuitous gift that God makes to us of his own life, infused by the Holy Spirit into our soul to heal it of sin and to sanctify it. ‘Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has passed away, behold, the new has come. All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself’” (CCC 1999, 2 Corinthians 5:17-18).
Our world is broken and we are wounded by sin. The Sacraments give us the life of God in us so that we can live in love of Him and one another, and ultimately pursue heaven in complete union with Him. The graces of the Sacraments so perfectly provide for us that, in the fullness of the Christian life lived authentically and completed in heaven, we will find perfect happiness. 2
What is the Sacrament of Confirmation? Confirmation IS:
The reception of seven gifts of the Holy Spirit that “seal the baptized in union with Christ and equip them for active participation in the worship and apostolic life of the Church” (CCC 1285, emphasis added). o These gifts are: wisdom, understanding, knowledge, counsel (or right judgment), courage (or fortitude), piety (or reverence), and wonder and awe (or fear of the Lord). A new beginning on the journey of discerning one’s vocation: religious life, priesthood, single life, or marriage & family life
Confirmation is NOT:
Completion of or “graduation” from Catholic faith formation A rite of passage to become an adult in the Church
Confirmation confers gifts which we as Christians need in order to understand our faith, deepen our relationship with God, and go out into the world to practice and spread our faith. In the early Church and in Eastern Orthodox traditions, Confirmation was/is conferred at the same time as Baptism. As a completion of the Sacrament of Baptism, Confirmation gives graces which were seen as necessary to the full practice of the Christian life – especially in times when Christians faced martyrdom. For various reasons in the West it is celebrated independently of Baptism, though the age of reception still varies by diocese. The reception of Confirmation includes a call to action. This is the Sacrament which: roots us more deeply in the divine filiation (children of God) unites us more firmly to Christ increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us renders our bond with the Church more perfect gives us a special strength of the Holy Spirit to spread and defend the faith by word and action as true witnesses of Christ, to confess the name of Christ boldly, and never to be ashamed of the Cross. (CCC 1303) In this Sacrament the faithful are marked with a seal – an indelible spiritual mark which consecrates us to God (sets us apart for God). We are not expected to be perfect after receiving Confirmation; we are all sinners and we all have weaknesses. However, this Sacrament is an invitation for Christ to fill those cracks, to help us to do more to build up His kingdom than we ever thought possible on our own. Practical points: Confirmation is one of the Sacraments of Initiation. It is deeply unified with Baptism, and as such includes a profession of faith. It is appropriate that Confirmation sponsors be the Baptismal godparents, because this highlights the unity between the two Sacraments. It cannot be emphasized strongly enough that Confirmation is the beginning of a spiritual journey, and those who receive the Sacrament should seek continued faith formation and should participate ever more fully in parish life, including attending Mass on Sundays and holy days (at least). 3
Sacramental Preparation Tracks At the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament
Who Can Be Confirmed? To be confirmed, three criteria must be met: 1. A person must be baptized, but not yet confirmed (CCC1306). 2. A person must be at the age of discretion (CCC 1307). This means that they must be ready and able to accept the responsibilities that come with Confirmation. 3. A person must also be in the state of grace. It is good to go to Confession before receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation (CCC 1310).
Confirmation Preparation Tracks: For 8th graders: At Blessed Sacrament, Confirmation typically takes place during the 8th grade year. Students must have completed at least two years of faith formation (7th and 8th grade) in order to receive the Sacrament. Those who are just beginning (or just returning to) their faith formation in 8th grade would fall into the high school track. For high school students: The completion of two years of faith formation is required in order to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation. High school students who were enrolled in religion classes (at a Catholic school or a parish faith formation program) in the prior year may continue to prepare over this year to receive Confirmation in the spring. Those who are just beginning (or just returning to) their faith formation will be prepared over a two-year track. High School students may choose either (1) to receive Confirmation with the 8th graders (with the bishop presiding) or (2) to receive Confirmation at the Easter Vigil. For adults: Adults (18+) seeking Confirmation should enroll in the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA) courses offered on Monday nights at Blessed Sacrament. Those only needing Confirmation will receive the Sacrament as a group after Pentecost. Those also receiving the Eucharist for the first time will receive both Sacraments at the Easter Vigil at Blessed Sacrament. For the unbaptized (children or adults): Those who have not yet been baptized, as long as they have reached the age of reason (7 or 8 years old and above), will receive all three Sacraments of Initiation at once: Baptism, Confirmation, and first Eucharist, at the Easter Vigil at Blessed Sacrament. Adults should enroll in RCIA courses; children and teens will be enrolled in the Sacramental Prep track connected to the School of Religion. Contact Information: 8th graders and high schoolers: Casey Esser,
[email protected] RCIA Program: Michelle Balch,
[email protected] School of Religion Sacramental Prep track: Rosalie Days,
[email protected] 4
CALENDAR: Confirmation Requirements – Year at-a-Glance See appendix for blank forms & paperwork
APRIL 2017 S
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S 1 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29
Orientation meeting – April 25, 2017
Service Hours – April through December, 2017 o Complete 20 service hours from at least 2 different organizations
Start of SOR Classes – Sunday, Sept. 10 or Tuesday, Sept. 12, 2017
Faith & Service events with Youth Ministry o Attend at least one Faith & Service event before Confirmation (counts for 2 service hours per event) o First Friday of each month from October 2017 through June 2018
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MAY 2017 S 7
M 1 8
T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
JUNE 2017 S
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4
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T 1 8
F S 2 3 9 10
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
JULY 2017 S
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S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15
F
16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
AUGUST 2017 S
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6
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T 1 8
W T F S 2 3 4 5 9 10 11 12
13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
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S 2
3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Paperwork: o Pledge Form & Baptismal Certificate – due June 5, 2017 o Sponsor Certification Form – due at retreat: Oct. 13 or Oct. 28, 2017 o Saint Report - due at retreat: Oct. 13 or Oct. 28, 2017 o Letter to the Bishop – due Jan. 5, 2018 o Service Hours Log and Reflection – due Jan. 5, 2018 Confirmation Rites: o Rite of Enrollment – September 24, 2017 at 5:30pm Mass o Rite of Commission – at retreat: Oct. 13 or Oct. 28, 2017 o Rite of Election – February 11, 2018 at 5:30pm Mass Confirmation Retreat: (two options, sign up by Sept. 24, 2017) o Friday, October 13, 2017 (led by NET Ministries) o Saturday, October 28, 2017 (led by SENT Ministries) Clergy Interview – January 16 – February 2, 2018 o Online sign-up will be sent via email in January Confirmation Exam – January 21-23, 2018 o Jan. 21 and 23 for SOR and Private Catholic Schools o Jan. 22 for BSS (in class)
OCTOBER 2017 S 1 8 15
M 2 9 16
T 3 10 17
W 4 11 18
T F S 5 6 7 12 13 14 19 20 21
22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
NOVEMBER 2017 S
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S 4
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
DECEMBER 2017 S
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3
4
5
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7
F 1 8
S 2 9
10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
JANUARY 2018 S 7
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T W T F S 2 3 4 5 6 9 10 11 12 13
14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31
FEBRUARY 2018 S
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Rehearsal – Date TBA, weeknight before Confirmation
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Sacrament of Confirmation – Date TBA (fall 2017), will be a
25 26 27 28
Saturday in February or March 2018
MARCH 2018
End of SOR Classes – Sunday, May 6 or Tuesday, May 8, 2018
S
SEPTEMBER 2017 S
Enroll online and pay $70 fee o SOR students: Select Confirmation on your SOR Registration Form. o BSS students and Private Catholic School students: fill out Confirmation Registration Form.
*Please be sure to keep up with emails sent throughout the year, and always check our webpage for updates, cancellations, and announcements: http://www.blessedsacramentdc.org/sacraments-rites/confirmation/ 5 4
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Program Details On the following pages you will find details explaining the purpose of several aspects of the Confirmation preparation program. While there are many elements to keep track of, each is intended to serve the Confirmation candidates and help to prepare them for the reception of this Sacrament. To avoid an attitude of simply “checking the boxes” of all the requirements, parents and candidates are asked to please read through the following sections to grow in your understanding of the Sacrament of Confirmation and the stages of preparation and evaluation. Parents are highly encouraged to talk with their children about each experience, and to encourage the candidates to make the faith their own in seeking a personal relationship with Jesus Christ through these events and projects. To reiterate this point, here are several quotes straight from the Catechism of the Catholic Church: 1653. The fruitfulness of conjugal love extends to the fruits of the moral, spiritual, and supernatural life that parents hand on to their children by education. Parents are the principal and first educators of their children. In this sense the fundamental task of marriage and family is to be at the service of life. 1656. In our own time, in a world often alien and even hostile to faith, believing families are of primary importance as centers of living, radiant faith. For this reason the Second Vatican Council, using an ancient expression, calls the family the Ecclesia domestica. It is in the bosom of the family that parents are "by word and example ...the first heralds of the faith with regard to their children." 2221. The fecundity of conjugal love cannot be reduced solely to the procreation of children, but must extend to their moral education and their spiritual formation. "The role of parents in education is of such importance that it is almost impossible to provide an adequate substitute." The right and the duty of parents to educate their children are primordial and inalienable. 2223. Parents have the first responsibility for the education of their children. They bear witness to this responsibility first by creating a home where tenderness, forgiveness, respect, fidelity, and disinterested service are the rule. The home is well suited for education in the virtues.
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Confirmation Orientation Meeting At the Orientation Meeting, the candidates will be asked to think about how they are living the Christian life now, and what their responsibilities as candidates will be. Parents will be asked to think about how they are called to support their child in the practice of their faith. This is the time for the candidate to indicate his/her desire to be prepared for the Sacrament of Confirmation, and to discern any initial questions or concerns.
Confirmation Rites There are three Rites which lead up to the Sacrament of Confirmation. These are celebrations which include blessings for the Confirmation candidates, recognizing steps along the journey of preparation. These Rites will take place during Mass on certain dates throughout the year.
Rite of Enrollment – at the 5:30pm Mass on Sunday, September 24, 2017 The candidates will be formally welcomed into the Confirmation Program and commissioned to do their service projects (though service may begin as early as April 2017 after the Orientation meeting). During this induction service, the candidates will make a covenant to enter into a program of preparation, with the parish community as witness. All candidates and parents are expected to attend. Rite of Commission – at Mass during the retreats: October 13, 2017 and October 28, 2017 The candidates will receive a blessing as they attend the Confirmation retreat and are reminded that they bear a responsibility to spread the Word of God. All candidates are expected to attend.
Rite of Election – at the 5:30pm Mass on Sunday, February 11, 2018 The candidates will receive a blessing prior to the reception of Confirmation, encouraging them as they take their final steps toward receiving this powerful sacrament. All candidates and parents are expected to attend.
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Sponsor Selection & Responsibilities 1. A sponsor is usually and preferably a baptism godparent (CCC 1311). §1. To perform the function of sponsor, a person must fulfill the conditions mentioned in canon 874. §2. It is desirable to choose as sponsor the one who undertook the same function in baptism. (COC 893 §1, §2)
2. The sponsor must have received the sacraments of Baptism, Holy Communion, and Confirmation and be a practicing Catholic in good standing. If married, they must be married by a Catholic Priest or Deacon. COC 874 §1. To be permitted to take on the function of sponsor a person must: 1. be designated ...by the parents,...pastor or minister and have the aptitude and intention of fulfilling this function; 2. have completed the sixteenth year of age; 3. be a Catholic who has been confirmed, received the Eucharist and who leads a life of faith in keeping with the function to be taken on; 4. NOT be bound by any canonical penalty legitimately imposed or declared; 5. NOT be the father or mother of the one to be baptized or confirmed. COC 874 §2. A baptized person who belongs to a non-Catholic ecclesial community is not to participate except together with a Catholic sponsor and then only as a witness.
3. When deciding on a sponsor, choose someone to whom you can talk about the faith, who will also be a good role model for you to follow and who will take an active role as your sponsor in your life.
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Confirmation Saint Report Each candidate will select a patron saint during their preparation process. That saint’s name will be added to their own as a sign of the change and new beginning taking place as they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. What’s in a name? Names hold great importance. When we meet someone for the first time, we usually exchange names. This signifies the beginning of some kind of relationship – small or deep, lasting or passing. In Exodus we read about God revealing his name to us through Moses (Exodus 3:1-15). When God calls Moses by name, it demonstrates his all-knowing role as the Creator. When God reveals his name to Moses, this is an invitation into a deeper relationship, revealing his role as Father. He is also reaching out to each of us by this revelation, inviting us into a personal relationship with Him. He knows us and calls us by name. Names are also a sign of power. At our Baptism and in Confession, sins are forgiven in the name of the Father, of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. We were all given a “Christian” name – the name of one of the saints or heroes of the Bible, for example – who became our patron. The Apostles are able to heal the sick and forgive sins in the name of Jesus. Finally, names are a sign of change and of conversion. Throughout the history of our faith, God has made promises, or covenants, with humanity. From Abraham and Sarah to Simon Peter, the change of a name signifies a new promise made with and by God. It also signifies a profound change in the person. Abraham, with the change of his name, became the father of nations (Genesis 17:5). Peter became the rock of the Church that Christ established (Matthew 16:18).
Choosing a saint Confirmation is a call to enter into a deeper relationship with God and with the Church. In preparing for this sacrament, each candidate will choose a new name to symbolize this relationship. This Confirmation Name is used in the ceremony; the bishop calls the candidate by his/her new name as he confirms him/her. The student may even choose his/her baptismal name because of the close unity between Baptism and Confirmation. The student should pick a saint’s name that would symbolize a new beginning in his/her faith life and a connection with that particular saint. This would be especially true if the candidate felt that he/she has maybe not been particularly strong in the faith and is now making a renewed commitment to the faith. This commitment is symbolized with the taking of a new name to show that the candidate is in some ways a new person. The Confirmation name is usually used after the middle name and before the last name. The particular saint’s name chosen will represent the direction that the student wants his/her faith life to take, or will represent a strength or attribute that is needed. It is important and necessary to learn about the saint chosen before deciding on the name. Selecting a saint’s name because the student likes the sound of the name, how it fits with his/her other names, or because it is the name of a nice friend or relative should NOT be among the reasons for choosing a saint. (continued on next page)
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Writing the Saint Report In the Appendix of this handbook, an outline is available to assist the candidate in writing the Saint Report about their patron saint for Confirmation. Please hand in a one-page type-written (or twopage double-spaced) Saint Report. Candidates should consider how their chosen saint can help prepare them to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation, and be the companion in their Christian journey. The student can honor this saint and ask for their help through prayer and meditation. Saint Reports are due at the Confirmation Retreat. The following are some helpful websites to assist in looking for a patron saint: www.newadvent.org www.catholic.org/saints www.catholic-pages.com www.americancatholic.org/features/saints
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Confirmation Retreat Throughout the Gospels, we see many examples of Jesus taking time to go off to a quiet place and pray. After his Baptism and before he began his public ministry, he spent 40 days in the desert, fasting and praying (Matthew 4:1-2). Our lives today are filled with distractions and constant stimulation, and we are surrounded by clamoring voices all with their own ideas of what is important in life. It is essential that we take time away from all this to return to God in the silence of our hearts, to seek him out in the Sacraments and in Scripture, to get to know the Lord personally and to receive from him the grace to grow deeper in the practice of our faith. To this end, the retreat is a mandatory part of the Confirmation preparation process.
We will offer two dates for the Confirmation retreat this year: Friday, October 13 and Saturday, October 28, 2017. Candidates must sign up for one of these retreats by Sunday, September 24, 2017. If the candidate is unable to attend one of our retreats, he or she may attend a Confirmation retreat with another Catholic parish. The candidate is responsible for contacting the parish and ensuring that we receive an email from that parish verifying the candidate’s attendance at that retreat.
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Service Hours & Reflection Jesus came “not to be served, but to serve” (Matthew 20:28). The Church is a servant community, and those receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation are accepting the responsibility to serve, responding to their Baptismal call. As we become more mature in the faith, we also come to realize that our responsibilities as Christians also increase. We must seek answers to our questions about the faith, but this alone is not enough. We must put our faith into action. Finding opportunities to serve others helps us to become aware of the needs of others, and demonstrates our willingness to respond to those needs. Confirmation candidates will complete 20 hours of service to show that they intend to make progress towards becoming full mature members of the Church and grow as disciples of Christ. From April through December 2017, candidates must complete 20 hours of service with at least 2 different organizations. Service projects should reach out beyond the family. They may be completed individually or with a group, in service of other people, the parish, or community groups. These services should be offered freely; candidates are not to receive any monetary compensation for their actions.
Under the “Service Opportunities” tab of this handbook, you will find a list of suggestions for community outreach as well as several service opportunities at Blessed Sacrament Parish and School. This is not an exhaustive list; students are encouraged to seek out service opportunities and to reach out to other leaders in the parish.
In the Appendix of this handbook you will find the Service Hours Log and Reflection Questions. The reflection questions should be completed based on the service projects performed, and these forms will be turned in together no later than January 5, 2018.
It is highly encouraged that candidates begin their service hours over the summer so they are not rushing during the fall semester to complete their 20 hours.
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Confirmation Exam The bishop has entrusted to each parish the task of preparing students for Confirmation. As such, all Confirmation candidates will take an exam to assess their knowledge of the faith and specifically of the Sacrament of Confirmation, demonstrating their readiness to receive the Sacrament. The exam will consist of objective style questions (multiple choice, true/false, matching, fill-in-theblank, and short answer). The passing grade is 75% or higher. If the student does not pass the exam, a meeting between parents and the Confirmation coordinator will be scheduled.
For Blessed Sacrament School students, the exam will take place during class on Monday, January 22, 2018. For School of Religion students, the exam will take place during class on Sunday, January 21, 2018 and on Tuesday, January 23, 2018. For other Private Catholic School students, each student must sign up to take the exam during one of the School of Religion class times (Sunday 1/21 at 8:45am or Tuesday 1/23 at 4:30pm). An email will be sent out in January to sign up for one of these dates.
A Study Guide can be found in the Appendix of this handbook.
Clergy Interview Each candidate will interview with one of our parish priests. This is another opportunity for the student to demonstrate their readiness to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. It is also a great opportunity for the candidate to ask any further questions they may have about the faith or about the sacrament, in a one-on-one setting. Interviews will take place on weekdays from 3:00pm to 4:30pm, January 16 through February 2, 2018. A link will be sent out in December for candidates to sign up for an interview slot with the priest of their choice. Please do not call the priests directly.
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Service Opportunities Keep in mind that the service hours log and reflection questions are DUE on January 5, 2018. Service hours for Confirmation must be completed before this date in order to submit the paperwork on time. It is highly encouraged that candidates begin their service hours over the summer so they are not rushing during the fall semester to complete their 20 hours. Students are encouraged to reach out to organizations such as nursing homes, homeless shelters, crisis pregnancy centers, libraries, community centers, tutoring organizations, programs for people with special needs (such as KEEN), etc. as they look for service projects. Some service opportunities at Blessed Sacrament Parish and School include:
Vacation Bible School – July 5-14, 2017, weekdays 9am to 3pm, sign up on the youth ministry website: www.blessedsacramentdc.org/youth/youth-ministry/
BSS Bridge Camp – Summer 2017, contact Jillian Easterlin,
[email protected]
Faith & Service events – on the first Friday evening of each month from October through June, RSVP link will be available on the youth ministry website.
Social Concerns Outreach – contact Mrs. Pat Kavanaugh,
[email protected] o School Supply Drive, September 2017 o Walk the Block for Social Justice, October 2017 o Advent Wreath Workshop, November 2017 o Christmas Giving Tree, November (distribute “Giving Stars”) and December (collect gifts in school Auditorium)
Sodality Bazaar – contact Nancy Ryan,
[email protected] or Cathy Lincoln,
[email protected] o Posting fliers (November 3-4), setup (Nov. 10th), Bazaar helpers (Nov. 11th)
Special Olympics – contact Emma Voelzke,
[email protected] o the actual event is too late for Confirmation service hours (mid-February) o but students can sign up to be Unified Partners working with athletes; contact Area Director Pam Yerg,
[email protected] or Youth Basketball League coach Dean Packard,
[email protected]
Greg Gannon Canned Food Drive – help with bag distribution (November), collect cans in designated territories (December), load cans into vehicles at Geico parking lot (December) – go to www.greggannoncfd.org for details and to sign up as a volunteer
Set-up, clean-up, and/or babysitting for various parish events – keep an eye on the youth ministry website as opportunities arise: www.blessedsacramentdc.org/youth/youth-ministry/ and/or contact Ms. Michelle Balch,
[email protected] o Parish Picnic, Parish Forum, Msgr. Corbett Memorial Lecture, etc.
Parish Library Aide – contact Ellen Roth (well in advance),
[email protected]
May use up to 10 hours of: o Altar Server – contact Fr. Alec Scott,
[email protected] o Singer or Musician at the 5:30pm Sunday Mass – contact Ginny Curtin,
[email protected] o BSS Cantors o BSS Crossing Guards 14
Logistics: Week-of & Day-of Detials Confirmation candidates will be divided into two groups, as there will be two Masses on the day of Confirmation. The group lists will be sent out in December. Confirmation Rehearsal (Students and sponsors need to attend – Parents may attend if inclined) Group I: 7:00 – 8:00pm, Tuesday before Confirmation day, meet in the Church. Group II: 7:00 – 8:00pm, Wednesday before Confirmation day, meet in the Church. Rehearsal is IMPORTANT and every candidate should plan to have his or her sponsor in attendance if at all possible. If a sponsor is unavailable, a parent may stand in their place for the rehearsal. Students will walk through the Confirmation Mass, including their procession in and out of the church. Since the students will need to know their exact spot in the lineup, candidates may not attend the other group’s rehearsal, unless it is an emergency and our office is notified in advance. Candidates and sponsors are expected to arrive promptly a few minutes before 7:00pm so the rehearsal can finish on time. Confirmation Day The date of Confirmation will be given to us by the bishop sometime in the fall of 2017. The exact date will be announced as soon as we receive it. Group I: 9:30 am in the Church – ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 9:00 AM Group II: 1:30 pm in the Church – ARRIVE NO LATER THAN 1:00 PM All candidates will report to the Parish Center Main Level (1st Floor) meeting room no later than 30 minutes before the ceremony begins. Sponsors will go directly to the church and be seated at your designated pew. The Mass will last about an hour and a half (+/- 15 minutes), depending on the length of the homily.
The Confirmation Mass The Rite of Confirmation takes place during a Mass. After the Liturgy of the Word, the candidates’ names are called, and the pastor presents the candidates to the Bishop. The actual Rite begins after the Homily. There are five parts to the rite: The renewal of baptismal promises, which includes a proclamation of belief in the tenants of the Creed; The laying on of hands, a gesture from the Old and New Testament invoking the power of the Holy Spirit; The anointing with Chrism on the forehead, a sign of the Spirit as a source of vitality, strength, and energy in leading a Christian life; The calling of the candidate by their Confirmation name, a sign of God’s personal love for each one of us; The sign of peace, a handshake. As each candidate is Confirmed, their sponsor will stand behind the candidate and place his/her right hand on the candidate’s right shoulder. 15
Proper Attire for Confirmation We will provide all candidates with red gowns, to be worn throughout the entire ceremony. BOYS Dress Shirt Tie Dress Pants Dress Shoes
GIRLS Suitable Blouse and Skirt Dress NO slacks Dress Shoes
Sponsors and candidates alike should be mindful of the reverence of this occasion. For women, dresses/skirts should be no less than KNEE-LENGTH; tops should sufficiently cover cleavage and midriff; cut-outs are not appropriate. When in doubt, do not hesitate to ask in advance.
Seating The front 8-10 pews of the middle section on each side will be reserved for the Confirmation candidates and their sponsors. The remainder of the Church is open seating for families and guests. There is no limit to the number of guests, but keep in mind that this will be a crowded occasion. If you have family members or guests that are handicapped or hearing impaired, the first pew on each side transept is reserved for these individuals.
Questions Asked By the Bishop It is standard practice in the Archdiocese of Washington for the Bishop to randomly ask questions of the Confirmation candidates on some basic information related to Catholicism and/or the Sacrament of Confirmation. While each Bishop varies as to whether or not he will follow this practice, students are encouraged to review the Study Guide for the Confirmation exam.
Photographs and Videos Photographs and videos are prohibited in the Church at all times to ensure that the solemnity of the celebration is maintained. After the ceremony, the candidates will proceed out the front doors of the Church to have a group photograph taken. Families and guests are asked to exit the side doors. Please note that there will not be a professional photographer at the Mass. After the group photograph, individual photographs with the bishop and pastor may be taken. In the event of rain, the group photograph will be in the church and individual photographs may be taken in the Parish Center hallway near the stairwell.
Return robes back to Parish Center After the group picture in front of the church, the Confirmandi are to hang their red gown on the clothing rack where they picked it up in the Duffy Parish Center before leaving. Students do not need to return their name badges. 16
Youth Ministry As part of the Confirmation program, all candidates are required to attend at least one Faith & Service event. This is the middle school youth ministry program at Blessed Sacrament, and has been a fun and dynamic way to build community, serve those around us, and encourage teens to get involved in the parish.
Faith & Service Middle School Youth Ministry
Meet at the 5:30pm Mass Move to the Auditorium after Mass (6pm) for dinner, games, a talk, and a service project. o
Service projects have included: making Rosaries for Mustard Seed Communities, making baby blankets for Northwest Pregnancy Center, making paracord survival bracelets for the military, writing Christmas cards to veterans, packing “Welcome Kits” for refugees served by Catholic Charities, and more.
All middle school students (6th-8th grade) are welcome at every event! RSVP information will be on the youth ministry page of the parish website.
Servant Leadership Program High School Youth Ministry Beginning in the fall of 2017, we are initiating a new High School Servant Leadership Program which is developed on a curriculum that includes education in the Catholic faith as well as spiritual development through direct service. The High School Servant Leadership Program will meet weekly throughout the year and will include different academic themes in both the fall and the spring. Registration for the fall of 2017 is now available through the SOR or School of Religion tab on the Blessed Sacrament’s website. High school events will also include: National Catholic Youth Conference, November 16-18, 2017 including college visits Mount 2000 Youth Conference & Retreat – February 2018 (date TBA) Gatherings and tournaments with other youth ministries in the area (Bubbleball in the fall, Dodgeball in the spring) Please contact Casey Esser for more details:
[email protected]
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Social Events and Outings Throughout the year we go off-site for various fun activities. We would love for you to join us! Events will include: Cemetery walk at Seton Shrine (around Halloween) Baseball games (Nationals) Soccer games (DC United) Sailing Ice Skating Skiing Hiking March for Life - will be held on Friday, January 19th, 2018; 8th grade and high school students are welcome to attend the Youth Rally & Mass at the Verizon Center followed by the March for Life. Retreats For Confirmation students, retreats will be held on October 13, 2017 and October 28, 2017. For high school students, we will hold a Fall Retreat and a Spring retreat. Dates TBA. Always check our website for details and the latest updates!! www.blessedsacramentdc.org/youth/youth-ministry/
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APPENDIX Checklist – Confirmation Program 2017-2018 Please see the subsequent pages for copies of all necessary paperwork. For your convenience, all paperwork can also be found in the pocket at the back of this handbook. DATE
DESCRIPTION
APRIL 2017
APRIL – DECEMBER
Register into Confirmation Program, pay $70 fee (links on Confirmation page of parish website) Orientation Meeting -missed it? Email Casey Esser for information Plan and complete 20 service hours
JUNE 5
Turn in Pledge Form and copy of Baptismal Certificate
SEPTEMBER 24
Rite of Enrollment at 5:30pm Sunday Mass
SEPTEMBER 24
Sign up for one of the retreats (see dates below)
OCTOBER 5, NOVEMBER 3, DECEMBER 1, JANUARY 5, FEBRUARY 2, MARCH 2 OCTOBER 13 or OCTOBER 28 OCTOBER 13 or OCTOBER 28 OCTOBER 13 or OCTOBER 28 JANUARY 5
Faith & Service events (attend at least one)
APRIL 25, 2017
*these continue in April, May, and June; you are welcome and encouraged to come after Confirmation!
Confirmation Retreat (choose one by Sept. 24) Saint Report DUE at retreat Sponsor Form DUE at retreat
JANUARY 16 – FEBRUARY 2
Service Hours Log and Reflection Questions DUE Letter to Bishop DUE Confirmation Exam 1/22 for BSS, 1/21 or 1/23 for SOR and Private Schools Clergy Interview (sign up via link in December email)
FEBRUARY 11
Rite of Commission at 5:30pm Sunday Mass
DATE TBA
Confirmation Rehearsal (Tuesday or Wednesday of Confirmation week) Confirmation Mass (9:30am or 1:30pm)
JANUARY 21 or 22 or 23
DATE TBA
It is always advised to keep a copy of all your paperwork. All paperwork may be scanned and submitted via email to
[email protected] with one exception: Please turn in originals of the Sponsor Certification Form (still keep a copy for yourself). 19
CONFIRMATION PLEDGE FORM DUE ON JUNE 5, 2017 with attached copy of Baptismal Certificate
CANDIDATE’S NAME: _________________________________________________________________ (PLEASE PRINT)
The Confirmation process is a two year journey beginning in the 7th grade, in which the candidate is invited to expand his/her faith through prayer, service, self-reflection and deeper understanding of the church’s teachings. This process necessitates a full commitment from the candidate, parent(s)/guardians and sponsors as this Sacrament looks to examination of one’s faith and participation in the life of the Church. Attendance at each class is mandatory with the exception of extenuating circumstances.
Candidate Pledge:
I have read the Confirmation booklet and understand the requirements expected of me It is my choice to enter into this year of preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation I will fulfill the requirements set forth in the Handbook and will seek to allow the Holy Spirit to work in me through this period of preparation If not already doing so, I take responsibility to attend Mass: “on Sundays and other holy days of obligation the faithful are bound to participate in the Mass” (CIC, Can. 1247)
CANDIDATE’S SIGNATURE: __________________________________________________________
Parent/Guardian Pledge: I have read the Confirmation booklet and I recognize that my involvement as a parent is of special importance in preparing my child to receive the sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore I promise to:
do my best to help my child fulfill the requirements; pray for my child, and through my example will witness to the faith of the Church; help my child further his/her education in the Catholic faith after being confirmed; If not already doing so, I take responsibility to attend/or assist my child in being able to attend Mass: “on Sundays and other holy days of obligation the faithful are bound to participate in the Mass” (CIC, Can. 1247)
1st PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE:_____________________________________________________ 2nd PARENT/GUARDIAN SIGNATURE:_____________________________________________________
Please attach a copy of your child’s Baptismal Certificate to this form – even if your child was baptized at Blessed Sacrament. This verification is needed for proper Sacramental Recording.
CONFIRMATION SPONSOR CERTIFICATION FORM DUE ON RETREAT DAY – OCTOBER 13, 2017 OR OCTOBER 28, 2017 NAME OF CONFIRMATION CANDIDATE: _________________________________________ (PLEASE PRINT)
NAME OF SPONSOR: __________________________________________ (PLEASE PRINT)
Desiring to be a Sponsor for Confirmation, and understanding that Church Law requires that I am living “a life of faith which befits the role to be undertaken” (see Can. 872-874), I solemnly affirm that: PLEASE INITIAL ALL STATEMENTS THAT APPLY: ____ I am not the parent or guardian of this child; ____ I am at least 16 years old and have received the three Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation; ____ I affirm that I faithfully participate in Mass on Sundays and Holy Days and receive Holy Communion, and am in good standing with the Catholic Church; ____ If unmarried, I am not co-habitating with a significant other thus giving public scandal; ____ If married, I was validly married to my present spouse in the presence of a Catholic priest or received proper dispensation from the Bishop; ____ If a parent, I encourage growth in faith in my children through regular participation in my parish religious education program or a Catholic school; ____ I will act as a guide and advisor to the person I am sponsoring, especially by my prayers and by the Christian example of my daily life. SPONSOR’S SIGNATURE: _________________________________________
PASTOR’S CERTIFICATION To be completed by the pastor of the sponsor’s home parish
I certify that this person is an active member of ___________________________________, in good standing (sponsor’s parish)
and not bound by any canonical penalty, and is thereby eligible to be a sponsor for Confirmation. Parish Name: __________________________________ PARISH SEAL Pastor’s Signature: ______________________________
CONFIRMATION SAINT REPORT DUE ON RETREAT DAY – OCTOBER 13, 2017 OR OCTOBER 28, 2017
Use this form as a guide for writing your report. Be sure to include all the elements mentioned. Do not turn in this form as your saint report. Hand in a typed report in paragraph form: no less than two pages double-spaced, size 12 font (longer is acceptable). Be sure to put your name on your report.
The Saint I choose to pray to and imitate and whose name I have chosen for the Sacrament of Confirmation is _______________________________________________. This saint’s feast day in the Church is ________________________________.
What three events in the life of this saint most impress you? Why?
Describe one outstanding virtue (a virtue is a good habit that enables a person to act with moral excellence, according to God’s will) that characterizes this saint’s life. How did this saint exercise this virtue? Include a brief story.
In what two ways was this saint most like Jesus? Explain.
How could you follow this saint’s example in your daily life today? Be specific. Give 3 examples.
Why did you choose this Confirmation name?
Find a prayer to your saint and include it in your report. Pray it often as you prepare for Confirmation.
LETTER TO THE BISHOP DUE ON JANUARY 5TH, 2018
Use this as a guide for writing your letter, and be sure to include responses to all the questions below. Please hand in a typed letter and be sure to include your name in the closing. Letters should be submitted to Casey Esser, not directly to the Bishop. (We will know in the fall which Bishop will be presiding for the Sacrament of Confirmation and will let you know.) BISHOPS: Addressing the envelope: Most Reverend N______ N______ Bishop of ______ Salutation on a letter: Your Excellency: Concluding a letter: Asking Your Excellency's blessing, I am, Yours respectfully, NN. In personal speech: Bishop
What does the Sacrament of Confirmation mean to you? In your own words, write one or two paragraphs explaining what the Sacrament of Confirmation means. Why do you feel you are ready to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation? Again, in your own words, state in two or three paragraphs why you feel ready to receive this sacrament. The pastor would also like to hear what you did to fulfill your community service requirement and what was learned from this experience. How do you think Confirmation could strengthen your role in the life of the Church? In other words, how is this Sacrament better able to connect you to the life of the Catholic Church? Through prayer? Through service? Through family? FORMAT: one page typed (or two pages double-spaced), as shown here: Letter to the Bishop Date Your Excellency, [letter written in paragraph form, responding to questions above]
Sincerely, (signature, optional) Name (First and Last)
CONFIRMATION SERVICE HOURS LOG THIS FORM AND ATTACHED REFLECTION QUESTIONS ARE DUE JANUARY 5, 2018 CANDIDATE’S NAME: _____________________________________________________________________ PLEASE NOTE WELL: Use a space to note each time you went to work at a service site. So, if you worked at a soup kitchen and went twice for 5 hours each time it should appear twice, once for each time you went. (NEED A TOTAL OF 20 HOURS)
SERVICE HOURS Project Name/Location
Date
# of Hours Worked
Supervisor Name
Supervisor Signature
Phone # of Supervisor
TOTAL HOURS = ___________ PLEASE REMEMBER TO FILL OUT REFLECTION QUESTIONS
CONFIRMATION SERVICE HOURS – REFLECTION QUESTIONS CANDIDATE’S NAME _______________________________________________________________ Think about one of your service projects and respond to the following questions in a written reflection below.
Briefly describe your project (what, when, where, etc) and why you chose it.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Comment on any insights your project inspired in you. Did you learn anything about yourself, others, and/or God doing this?
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Name a Spiritual or Corporal Work of Mercy or a Scripture passage you believe you put into action through this service. Explain.
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________
CONFIRMATION EXAM STUDY GUIDE Knowledge of all the following information will prepare you well for the Confirmation Exam. Questions may be multiple choice, true/false, matching, fill-in-the-blank, and short answer. The passing grade is 75% or higher.
Prayers to know by heart: Sign of the Cross In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Our Father Our Father, who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread, and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.
Hail Mary Hail Mary, full of grace, the Lord is with thee. Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen
Glory Be Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
Act of Contrition (choose one) Oh my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended you, and I detest all my sins because of your just punishment, but most of all because they offend you, my God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of your grace, to sin no more and to avoid the near occasion of sin. Amen. My God, I am sorry for my sins with all my heart. In choosing to do wrong and failing to do good, I have sinned against you who I should love beyond all things. I firmly intend, with your help, to do penance, to sin no more, and to avoid whatever leads me to sin. Amen.
Nicene Creed I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets. I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.
The Seven Sacraments: Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism – in Baptism we are born into new life in Christ. Baptism takes away Original Sin and personal sin and makes us members of the Church. The rite of baptism, celebrated by a priest or deacon, together with parents, godparents, and other members of the faith community, includes the sign of the cross upon the child, the profession of faith, the pouring of water, the white garment, the candle, and the anointing with oil. Confirmation – Confirmation seals our life of faith in Jesus. We receive the gifts of the Spirit in Confirmation to complete our baptism, to strengthen our relationship with the Church, and to help us build God’s kingdom. The rite of Confirmation, celebrated by the bishop, together with a sponsor for each candidate, includes the renewal of baptismal promises, the laying on of hands, the anointing of the candidates with chrism, and the exchange of peace. the form of Confirmation – the words “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit” the matter of Confirmation – the laying on of hands and the anointing with chrism Eucharist – The Eucharist is the sacrament of Jesus’ Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity, under the appearances of bread and wine. This Sacrament sustains the spiritual life of grace within us. Sacraments of Healing: Reconciliation – The sacramental celebration in which, through God’s mercy and forgiveness, the sinner is reconciled with God and also with the Church, Christ’s Body, which is wounded by sin. Anointing of the Sick – This sacrament unites a sick person’s sufferings with those of Jesus. Through prayer and the anointing of the body with the Oil of the Sick, a person receives a special grace of healing and comfort in their suffering, and the forgiveness of their sins. Sacraments at the Service of Communion Matrimony – The sacrament in which a baptized man and woman are united with each other as a sign of the unity between Jesus and his Church. Matrimony requires the consent of the couple, as expressed in the marriage vows. Holy Orders – The sacrament which confers the ordained ministry of bishops, priests, and deacons.
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The Ten Commandments (see Exodus 20:2-17) 1. I am the Lord, your God, you shall not have strange gods before me. 2. You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain. 3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s day. 4. Honor your father and your mother. 5. You shall not kill. 6. You shall not commit adultery. 7. You shall not steal. 8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 9. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife. 10. You shall not covet your neighbor’s goods. The Beatitudes (see Matthew 5:1-12) Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth. Blessed are they who mourn, for they shall be comforted. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the pure of heart, for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of God. The Spiritual Works of Mercy Counseling the doubtful Instructing the ignorant Admonishing the sinner Comforting the sorrowful Forgiving injuries Bearing wrongs patiently Praying for the living and the dead The Corporal Works of Mercy Feed the hungry Give drink to the thirsty Shelter the homeless Visit the sick Visit the imprisoned Bury the dead Give alms to the poor
The Precepts of the Church Attend Mass on all Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation Confess our sins at least once a year Receive Holy Communion at least once a year during the Easter season Fast and abstain on the days appointed Provide for the needs of the Church The Theological Virtues – faith, hope, and charity The Cardinal Virtues – prudence, justice, fortitude, temperance Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Wisdom – helps us understand the purpose and plan of God and live in a way that helps us bring about this plan. Understanding – helps us make the right choices in life and in our relationships with God and with others. Knowledge – helps us discern what God asks of us and how we should respond. Counsel (right judgment) – helps us seek advice and accept the advice of others. Fortitude (courage) – helps us live as followers of Jesus, stand up for our beliefs, and live a good Christian life. Piety (reverence) – helps us love and worship God. Fear of the Lord (wonder and awe) – helps us recognize God’s greatness and our dependence on Him.
Fruits of the Holy Spirit: Love Joy Peace Kindness Generosity Goodness Gentleness Self-control Modesty Faithfulness Chastity Patience
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Key Terms: Grace – the free and undeserved gift that God gives us to respond to our vocation to become his adopted children. God shares his divine life and friendship. Sacrament – An efficacious sign of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us through the work of the Holy Spirit. Conscience – the interior voice of a human being, within whose heart the inner law of God is inscribed. It moves a person at the appropriate moment to do good and avoid evil. Magisterium – the Pope and Bishops - the living, teaching office of the Church, whose task it is to give an authentic interpretation of the word of God in Sacred Scripture and Sacred Tradition. Chrism – a perfumed oil, consecrated by a bishop, that is used in the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders. Paschal Mystery – the passion (suffering), death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Communion of Saints – made up of the Church Triumphant in heaven, the Church Suffering in purgatory, and the Church Militant on earth. Incarnation – the truth that God became man.
