Confirmation is a Sacrament of Initiation which perfects the grace received in Baptism. The Confirmand receives the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit (like at Pentecost). The Confirmand is anointed with sacred chrism (a blessed oil) on his or her forehead by the Bishop, with the words, “be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” To receive the Sacrament, the person must be in a state of grace, reach the age of reason, make a profession of faith, state his or her intention to receive the Sacrament, and accept his or her obligation to profess Christ in both the Church and the world.
The Diocese of Providence has developed a comprehensive framework for preparing candidates for the Sacrament of Confirmation, designed to engage families and offer ongoing support throughout the process. This approach emphasizes discernment and the formation of small discipleship groups, where young people are nurtured through authentic relationships and personal witness. Aligned with the diocesan framework Engage, Equip, Send, the process mirrors the model of evangelical activity found in the story of the disciples on the road to Emmaus. Candidates are engaged in the preparation process, equipped through formation phases, and sent forth by the bishop to participate in the mission of evangelization. Discernment by the pastor, candidate, and parents guides the journey, ensuring the development of lifelong disciples of Jesus Christ.