Initiation As the candidate Catholic 5 min read

Catholic Confirmation as the candidate

What is asked of the Confirmation candidate in US Catholic practice, from registration through the rite celebrated by the bishop.

01 Before the preparation begins

Catholic Confirmation in US practice typically takes place in the early-to-mid teen years, commonly in eighth grade (age 13-14), though the canonical norm allows the diocesan bishop to set any age between 7 and 16. The preparation is normally a one- to two-year catechetical programme through the parish religious education programme.

Registration is normally in the late summer or fall of the year preparation begins (so seventh grade for a typical eighth-grade Confirmation). The parish religious education programme is the source for the local age and schedule.

02 The catechetical programme

The Confirmation preparation programme covers the meaning of Confirmation as completion of baptism (CIC c. 879), the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit, the moral life of the Christian, and a deeper understanding of the Catholic faith. The format varies by parish; weekly or biweekly classes through the school year is typical. Most US dioceses require a Confirmation retreat (often a weekend) and some number of service hours (typical requirements range from 10 to 40 hours; parishes vary).

04 The Confirmation name and the letter to the bishop

Most US Catholic dioceses expect the candidate to choose a Confirmation name (typically the name of a saint chosen as a patron) and to write a personal letter to the diocesan bishop explaining why they wish to be confirmed. The custom is widespread but not strictly canonical; the parish religious education programme guides the candidate on both.

05 The Confirmation Mass

The Confirmation Mass is normally celebrated by the diocesan bishop (or another bishop delegated by him; CIC c. 882). One bishop typically confirms an entire class of candidates at a single Mass. The candidates renew their baptismal promises, then each comes forward with their sponsor; the sponsor places a hand on the candidate's shoulder; the bishop anoints the candidate's forehead with chrism saying "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit." The Mass continues as usual.

Candidates often wear red or white robes, or church-formal attire (some dioceses provide robes; others ask candidates to wear specific attire). The Mass is typically longer than a regular Sunday Mass (90 minutes or more for a large class). Family reception following the Mass is common.

06 Common questions

Who can be a Confirmation sponsor?
Canon law (CIC c. 893, referring back to c. 874) requires the sponsor to meet the same canonical requirements as a baptismal godparent: at least 16 years of age, a Catholic who has received the sacraments of Confirmation and the Most Holy Eucharist, leads a life of faith in keeping with the role, is free of canonical penalties, and is not the parent of the candidate. The same person who served as baptismal godparent is preferred (c. 893 §2) for symbolic continuity; many confirmands choose a new sponsor instead. Most parishes require a sponsor certificate from the sponsor's home parish.
Do I have to choose a Confirmation name?
Most US Catholic dioceses expect the candidate to choose a Confirmation name, typically the name of a saint chosen as a patron and spiritual guide. The custom is widespread but not strictly canonical; the parish religious education programme will indicate the local practice and the timing for the choice.
What is the personal letter to the bishop?
Many US dioceses require the candidate to write a personal letter to the diocesan bishop explaining why they wish to be confirmed and what their preparation has meant to them. The letter is normally one or two pages, written in the candidate's own words. The parish religious education programme will provide the address and any specific guidance.
What happens at the rite itself?
The Confirmation Mass is normally celebrated by the diocesan bishop (or another bishop delegated by him; CIC c. 882). The candidates renew their baptismal promises; the bishop extends his hands over the candidates and prays for the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit; each candidate comes forward with their sponsor, the sponsor places a hand on the candidate's shoulder, the bishop anoints the candidate's forehead with chrism saying "Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit," and the candidate is welcomed as a fully initiated Catholic.
What if I miss part of the preparation?
Catholic Confirmation preparation typically allows some flexibility for genuine absences (illness, travel, conflicts). Significant missed catechesis is generally made up through additional sessions or readings. The parish religious education director is the source for the local policy.

07 Pastoral note

Last reviewed against primary sources: May 17, 2026