The Meaning of the Sacrament of Confirmation

Summary

In this video, Jaredes from thereligionteacher.com explains the significance of the sacrament of confirmation in the Catholic Church. He highlights that confirmation strengthens the baptismal grace received earlier, particularly through the anointing with chrism (oil). This sacrament connects us to Christ, the Anointed One, and helps us grow more like Him by receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The sacrament is often received at an older age to better appreciate its impact, as it strengthens our bond with God and empowers us to live the Christian life more fully.

Takeaways

• 😀 Confirmation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church.
• 😀 Baptism is the first sacrament, washing away sins and bringing individuals into the church as sons and daughters of God.
• 😀 Confirmation strengthens the grace received at baptism by anointing with chrism (holy oil).
• 😀 The term 'confirmation' refers to confirming or strengthening baptismal grace.
• 😀 The sacrament of confirmation is closely tied to baptism, reinforcing its significance.
• 😀 In the Eastern Church, confirmation is known as 'chrismation,' highlighting the use of oil or chrism.
• 😀 The oil used in confirmation symbolizes the anointing of Christ, the 'Anointed One.'
• 😀 Receiving confirmation helps individuals become more like Christ, aligning with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
• 😀 Confirmation is a significant sacrament because it deepens the bond with God and strengthens the Christian life.
• 😀 The sacrament of confirmation is typically received when individuals are older, enabling them to better appreciate its significance.
• 😀 Confirmation involves receiving the Holy Spirit, which helps individuals grow in their faith and live as true disciples of Christ.

Q & A

What is the sacrament of confirmation in the Catholic Church?

Confirmation is one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church that strengthens the grace received in baptism through the anointing with oil, also known as chrism. It helps individuals become more like Christ and receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

How does baptism relate to confirmation?

Baptism is the sacrament that initiates a person into the Christian faith, washing away sins and making them part of the Church. Confirmation builds on this by strengthening the grace received during baptism, further establishing the individual in the faith.

What is the role of chrism (oil) in the sacrament of confirmation?

In confirmation, chrism, or sacred oil, is used to anoint the individual. This symbolizes the strengthening of baptismal grace and is connected to the concept of Jesus Christ, the 'anointed one.' The oil is a physical sign of the Holy Spirit's presence.

Why is confirmation sometimes called 'chrismation' in certain Christian traditions?

In Eastern Christian traditions, especially in the East, confirmation is referred to as 'chrismation' because of the significant role that chrism (sacred oil) plays in the sacrament. It emphasizes the anointing and the connection to Christ, the Anointed One.

What does the term 'Christ' mean and how does it relate to confirmation?

'Christ' means 'the Anointed One,' referring to Jesus. In confirmation, the individual is anointed with chrism, symbolizing the receiving of the Holy Spirit and becoming more like Christ.

Why is confirmation considered an important sacrament?

Confirmation is important because it strengthens the grace received at baptism and empowers individuals with the gifts of the Holy Spirit, helping them to become more like Christ and fully embrace their Christian identity.

At what age is confirmation typically received, and why?

Confirmation is usually received at an older age, after baptism, so that individuals can appreciate the significance of the sacrament and more consciously affirm their commitment to the Christian faith.

How does confirmation help individuals in their Christian life?

Confirmation helps individuals by deepening their relationship with God, strengthening their baptismal grace, and preparing them to live a more faithful Christian life with the help of the Holy Spirit's gifts.

What is the connection between confirmation and the Holy Spirit?

Confirmation involves the reception of the Holy Spirit, who imparts gifts that help individuals grow in their Christian faith and become more like Christ. The Holy Spirit strengthens the baptismal grace and guides the individual in their spiritual journey.

How does confirmation help in the formation of a Christian's identity?

Through confirmation, individuals are more deeply united with Christ and the Church, receiving the strength to live out their faith more fully. It confirms their Christian identity and mission to become disciples of Christ.