Confirmation - Adults
"Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit."
Confirmation, considered to be the second of the Sacraments of Initiation, is often celebrated last in the United States for Catholics baptized as children. It is never too late to receive the Grace of this important Sacrament.
What is Confirmation?
Through the Sacrament of Confirmation the Confirmand (person receiving the sacrament) is enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands and the anointing with Holy Chrism (oil) by the Bishop. Confirmation brings the process of Christian initiation to completion. The life long journey of faith formation continues as the fully initiated develop spiritually and participate in the life of God.
What is the normal age for Confirmation?
In the Diocese of Grand Rapids the normal age for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation has moved from as early as the 4th grade to as late as the 10th grade. Today children are confirmed in the 8th grade.
Can I be Confirmed as an adult?
Yes! It is not unusual that one not have received the Sacrament of Confirmation as a young person. For this reason, The Cathedral of Saint Andrew offers a preparation program for adults of all ages.
What are the prerequisites?
The prerequisites for the sacrament of Confirmation are that one has been baptized as a Catholic and has received their first Holy Communion. If either of these or both are not completed then the normal route is for the person to participate in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
When are the preparation classes offered?
The Cathedral's program is 10 weeks long and is held each year starting in late January or early February. Confirmation for the Cathedral parish is usually in late May.
What are the classes like?
The preparation for adults is quite different from that of children or young teens. The process is one of a small-group, adult learning experience. The focus of the program is to connect the practice of our Catholic Faith to 
our experiences in our everyday lives. For many who participate in this program, it is an opportunity to see, for the first time, the faith of the Church with an adult understanding. Ideas formed in childhood are challenged, developed and nuanced. The resources are varied and many and they include a scripture study of the Book of Acts, The US Catholic Catechism for Adults, the Bible and some of the Vatican II documents. Participants will look at how their image of God affects the way they are in relationship with Him and spend significant time connecting daily life with the underlying meaning of incarnation and Eucharist.
How do I sign up?
To register for Confirmation classes or for more information, contact us in the Cathedral office.
