RCIA & Confirmation: Key Concepts and Sacraments in Catholic Initiation

RCIA

Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults

Purpose of RCIA

Become fully initiated into the Catholic Church.

Inquiry / Pre-Catechumenate

Learn, ask questions, no commitment yet.

Catechumenate

Study Scripture, Church teachings, prayer, moral life.

Purification & Enlightenment

Self-reflection and preparation, usually during Lent.

Sacraments of Initiation

Baptism, Confirmation, Eucharist.

Mystagogy

Post-initiation learning and living out faith.

Sponsor/Godparent

Guides candidate spiritually.

Catechist

Teaches faith and morals.

Priest/Bishop

Administers sacraments.

Baptism

Welcomes into the Church, removes original sin.

Confirmation

Strengthens Baptism, seals with the Holy Spirit.

Eucharist

Nourishes spiritually with the Body and Blood of Christ.

Purpose of Confirmation

Strengthens the grace of Baptism.

Requirements for Confirmation

Be a baptized Catholic, adequate preparation, choose a Confirmation name, have a sponsor.

Age for Confirmation

Usually 8th-11th grade; adults can also be confirmed.

Laying on of Hands

Receiving the Holy Spirit.

Anointing with Chrism

Sealed with the Spirit.

Words of Confirmation

Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.

Sign of Peace

Community welcomes the confirmed.

Gifts of the Holy Spirit

Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel, Fortitude, Knowledge, Piety, Fear of the Lord.

Fruits of the Holy Spirit

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control, modesty, goodness, chastity.

Importance of Confirmation

Gives courage, strength, and guidance to live as a faithful Catholic.

Pentecost

Connects to the Sacraments of Initiation because the Holy Spirit empowers believers.