Confirmation
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Baptism, Confirmation, and the Most Holy Eucharist together constitute the "sacraments of Christian initiation," whose unity must be safeguarded. It must be explained to the faithful the reception of the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. For "by the sacrament of Confirmation" [the baptized] are more perfectly bound to the Church and are enriched with a special strength of the Holy Spirit. Hence they are, as true witnesses of Christ, more strictly obliged to spread and defend the faith by word and deed". (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1285).
In the Archdiocese of New Orleans Confirmation is to be celebrated at the beginning of the eleventh grade.
Prior to the direct preparation for the Catholic sacrament of Confirmation, a candidate is expected to have completed several years of consecutive faith formation. The preparation process involve attending classes, participating in Mass, completing service hours, and undergoing spiritual development, ensuring the individual is ready for the sacrament and has a solid understanding of Catholic teachings and the role of the Holy Spirit.
The Archdiocese requires 12-14 hours of immediate Confirmation prep prior to receiving the Sacrament. This applies to students who attend public, private and Catholic schools, as well as those who are home schooled.
St John the Baptist does 12 hours of Immediate Confirmation preparation starting in August at the beginning of the students 11th grade year.
Prior to the 11th grade year students should be enrolled in the 10th grade Parish School of Religion.
Students who are in 10th grade are also encouraged to join the Catch Fire Youth Group.
The dates and times for August Preparation will be announced. The retreat, in coordination with St Benedict's Catholic Church in Covington, is planned for sometime in August.
There is a small fee to help cover the cost of the retreat.
Confirmation mass is held at St Benedict's Church sometime in September/October.
Please check back for dates.
Classes at St John's are led by Mr. Richard Coffey, the Confirmation Teacher. He can be reached at (504) 884-1801 or [email protected].
If you need more information on Confirmation Preparation contact the Director of Religious Education, Alicia Lee, at (504) 512-7321 or [email protected].