Confirmation

Thank you for your interest in the Sacrament of Confirmation at Blessed Sacrament! There have been many changes to the guidelines for receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Diocese of Saginaw in the past few years. Read below to learn all about these changes and what the new Confirmation Preparation Program will look like at Blessed Sacrament!

The Backstory

For years, young people in the Diocese of Saginaw have received the Sacrament of Confirmation in the 2nd grade, before receiving the Eucharist for the first time. However, in 2021, Bishop Gruss decided that “discernment and preparation for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation should begin at a minimum age of 12 to 14 years old.” In addition, he is requiring parishes to prepare youth for this Sacrament through a two-year process. Parish leaders will accompany youth on this journey of preparation and will guide youth as they discern when they are ready to receive the Sacrament.

Program Details

What are the program requirements?

To prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation, a child must:

be at least twelve years old by September 1, 2025.
be a member of the parish in which he/she will be receiving the Sacrament.
be an active participant in Sunday night Middle School Youth Ministry (held at Blessed Sacrament on Sunday evenings from 6-8pm).
attend a retreat in Year 2 of preparation.

When and where will the program meet?

Location: Assumption BVM Parish

Time: Wednesdays, 6:15-8:00pm

Dates: January 7, 14, 21, 28, February 4, 11, March 4, 11, 18, 25

How do I register for the program?

You can register your child for the program here.

What will the program look like?

The Diocese requires that all parishes use a program called Purpose to prepare their students for Confirmation. This is a wonderful program that truly aims to help youth encounter Christ and become life-long disciples! There are 24 lessons to be taught over two years. The lessons will feel like Youth Ministry! There will be games, food, prayer, teaching, and discussions.

We will be accompanying one group of students through the two-year program at a time. This means there will be students from two (or more) grade levels going through the program together.

How will my child discern whether they are ready to begin the program?

Any student who wishes to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation (and is a member of either Blessed Sacrament, St. Brigid, or Assumption) must be enrolled and actively participate in our Sunday night Youth Ministry program, where students will have discernment opportunities. Our Youth Ministers and small group leaders will accompany youth on this journey and give students plenty of opportunities for reflection and discussion.

When will my child receive the Sacrament of Confirmation?

This depends on the Bishop’s availability, but we hope to confirm students in the Fall after completing their second year of preparation.

If you have other questions, please email Christine Sellnow, Middle School Youth Minister.