Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. CCC #1285
Like the sacrament of Baptism, Confirmation makes an indelible spiritual mark- sealing the person for Christ and setting them aside for life with him.

At St Francis, preparation for Confirmation is a two year journey starting as early as 5th grade for the 1st year and 6th grade for the 2nd year.

Printable version of the Confirmation 24 guidelines.
Versión imprimible de las directrices de Confirmación 24.

1. Requirements year 2 (year of Confirmation)

Attend two years of faith formation either at the parish weekly classes or in attendance at the Catholic School.

Register for faith formation All Confirmation students use the Faith Formation registration form
Signed petition to be confirmed and turn in November 8*
Bring a copy of child’s baptism certificate by November 8*
Be a registered member of St Francis Parish
Regular attendance at mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation.
Attend the parent meeting at the beginning (October)

Attend three family faith events and be ready to share at your interview
Parent and child attend four monthly in person sacramental preparation workshops

Sunday Nov 5, 2:00 -3:30 pm or Monday Nov 6, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Sunday Dec 3, 2:00 - 3:30 pm or Monday Dec 4, 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Sunday Jan 21, 2:00 - 3:30 pm or Monday Jan 22 at 6:30 - 8:00 pm
Sunday Feb 4, 2:00 - 3:30 pm or Monday Feb 5, 6:30 - 8:00 pm

Parent and child schedule an interview for readiness of the family and child in their faith and sacraments
Attend Confirmation rehearsal with sponsor

2. Choose a sponsor (read Choosing a Sponsor)
There is only to be one sponsor for Confirmation

Sponsor complete Sponsor Eligibility form.
Sponsor and Candidate complete 4 Sponsor Discussions
Sponsor submit a copy of their baptismal certificate. If the sponsor is married, submit a CATHOLIC marriage certificate.
Sponsor Eligibility form should be complete with certificates and turned in no later than December 6*

3. Service
Meaningful participation in service of the parish and wider community.
This Service will be documented on the Service Hour’s sheet and turned in with a Letter for Bishop on January 24*.

4. Confirmation Retreat

Students in grades 6-8 attend the Confirmation retreat on March 2. Cost is $40. Registration is required by the deadline February 7*

Students in grades 9-12 attend a weekend Confirmation retreat on March 8-10. Cost is $240. Registration is required by the deadline of January 3

5. Write a letter to Bishop Cary

Look at the Confirmation page on the website to find “How to write a letter to Bishop” if you need a printed version talk with Janet or Mirella.
Email or drop off letter no later than January 24*
Janet’s email: faithformation@stfrancisbend.org

6. Interview
Parents and candidates attend an interview to assess sacramental readiness. Interviews will start March 1 and will only go until March 23

7. Confirmation rehearsal
Attend Confirmation rehearsal with sponsor (or another adult) on Sunday, April 28 at 6:30-8:00 pm.

8. Confirmation Mass
Confirmation Mass with Bishop Cary is Wednesday, May 15, at 6:00 pm. Candidate and Sponsor arrive by 5:00 pm for Bishop's instructions and a group photo.

9. If you are a student in grades 6-12 and preparing for first Communion you will receive first Communion at Confirmation Mass

* If for some reason you cannot turn in your papers on the set dates please let Janet or Mirella know. If they are not turned in on time your child’s Sacraments can be postponed unless you have spoken to above named staff beforehand

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the attire for Confirmation candidates? Nice church clothes. Dresses should be no shorter than 2 inches from the ground while kneeling. Shoulders, middles or backs should not show. Boys should wear collared shirt and nice pants.
Does my child need a candle, Bible, or rosary? No. Candidates will not have anything in their hands. Gift can be given after the Mass. The priest will bless items next to the baptismal font after Mass.
Is photography allowed during Mass? Photography from your seat during Mass. Please do not stand, there are others behind you. The church will remain open after Mass for photos.
What do sponsors for Confirmation wear? Nice church clothes. Ladies, you will go up a step and raise your hand to your candidate's shoulder, so allow at least 3 inches of extra hem
When is rehearsal? See #7 above
What time is Mass and what time does my child need to arrive? See #8
Will there be a reception at the church after the Mass? We will have cookies and beverage after Mass.

RICA
There are additional requirements and activities for children and youth (age 7-12) in the RCIA program seeking baptism. Click here for information for RCIA for children
For Adults see: RCIA

Note for unique situations: These requirements are the norm, but we understand that families might have unique situations. To discuss your situation, call the office at (541) 382-3631 and ask to be transferred to the Coordinator of Evangelization and Catechesis.