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A Sacrament of Initiation

A sacrament is an outward sign instituted by Christ to give grace. In the 12th century, the tally of seven sacraments achieved acceptance. Sacraments are a means by which the nature and structure of the church are brought into operation.

The three sacraments of initiation are baptism, Eucharist, and confirmation.

Confirmation

​Confirmation brings to completion the grace received through baptism. By this sacrament the baptized are more perfectly bound to the church and are enriched by the strength of the Holy Spirit. This gift conforms believers more fully to Christ and strengthens them to bear witness to Christ for the building up of his body in faith and love. These sacraments are offered according to the guidelines established by the code of canon law and the Diocese of Greensburg.

Confirmation Blocks

St. Bartholomew Parish is part of Block 3 in the diocese, which will hold confirmation for those in grade 8 in the year 2024-25.  The diocese also has official qualifications of confirmation sponsors as well as several guidelines and/or recommendations.

Qualifications of Confirmation Sponsors

  1. Be designated by the candidate, by the parents or guardians, or the pastor.
  2. Have the qualifications and intention of performing the role of sponsor.
  3. Be at least 16 years old.
  4. Be a fully initiated Catholic (received baptism, confirmation and Eucharist).
  5. Lead a life in harmony with the faith and role of a sponsor (i.e., be a member of a parish, attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days, not be in an irregular marriage, etc.).
  6. Not be bound by a canonical penalty.
  7. Not be the father or mother of the one to be confirmed.

Sponsors for the sacrament of confirmation must abide by the same qualifications as sponsors for the sacrament of baptism. In addition, the following guidelines and/or recommendations apply:

  1. There is normally one sponsor for the sacrament of confirmation.
  2. It is recommended that a baptismal godparent exercise the role of confirmation sponsor.
  3. A non-Catholic may not serve as a sponsor for the sacrament of confirmation. (It is discouraged that a spouse serve as confirmation sponsor).

Our diocese continues the practice of requiring proof of eligibility for sponsorship (in accord with the qualifications above) from the parish in which the sponsor is registered.

For additional information, please call the parish office at 724-834-0709.