Confirmation

The Sacrament of Confirmation is the last of the Sacraments of Initiation, with Baptism and Holy Communion preceding. Like Baptism, which it completes, Confirmation is given only once, for it too imprints on the soul an "indelible spiritual mark" the soul, which is a sign that Jesus Christ has marked a Christian with the seal of the Holy Spirit by clothing him or her with power from on high so that he or she may be a witness. (Catechism of the Catholic Church 1304). It is evident from the Liturgical Celebration that the effect of the Sacrament of Confirmation is the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit as once granted to the apostles at Pentecost. (CCC 1302). Thus, Confirmation brings an increase and deepening of baptismal grace. (CCC 1302). The Sacrament of Confirmation roots us more deeply in the divine filiation which makes us cry out "Abba, Father"; it unites us more firmly to Christ; it increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us; it renders our bond with the Church more perfect; it gives 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 be ashamed of the Cross. (CCC 1303). The rite and Liturgical Celebration of the Sacrament of Confirmation is to be celebrated by the bishop, the original minister. The Sacrament of Confirmation is conferred through the anointing with Chrism oil on the forehead, which is done by the laying on of the hands, and through the words: "Accipe signaculum doni Spiritus Sanctí" (be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit). (CCC1300). The gifts being referred to are those from the prophet of Isaiah 11:2: "the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, a Spirit of wisdom and understanding, a Spirit of counsel and of strength, a Spirit of knowledge and of Fear of the Lord and his delight shall be the fear of the Lord".