What is Confirmation?
The Sacrament of Confirmation is one of the seven Sacraments of the Catholic Church and a vital step in our initiation into full communion with God and His Church. It completes the grace of Baptism by sealing us with the Holy Spirit and strengthening us with His gifts, empowering us to live as sons and daughters of the Father. Through Confirmation, we are more deeply united with Christ, bound more perfectly to the Church, and equipped to actively participate in its mission. This sacrament is a free and unmerited gift of God’s love—one that invites us to receive, understand, and respond with open hearts, so we may be true witnesses of the faith in both word and deed.
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Confirmation at Saint Ambrose
At Saint Ambrose, we walk with candidates and their families through this journey with intentional formation, meaningful community, and prayerful celebration. Confirmation preparation takes place for one year prior to receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. Since raising children in the faith is the primary responsibility of the parents, we at Saint Ambrose will accompany each candidate and family to the best of our ability.1
Expectations for Confirmation Preparation
Below are the steps and expectations for candidates in Grades 9–12 preparing for Confirmation in the 2024–2025 year.
Candidates are expected to attend Mass every Sunday and on Holy Days of Obligation as part of living their faith.
Please complete registration during summer 2024 to be included in the upcoming formation year.
All candidates and at least one parent/guardian must attend the Confirmation Inquiry Meeting at Saint Ambrose Church. This is a great opportunity to learn more and ask any questions.
Join us for Family Formation Sessions held monthly in the Fellowship Hall. We begin together in the church before breaking into age-specific sessions. Parents receive formation too, and sponsors are always welcome!
Family Session Dates (6:00–8:00 pm):
- Sunday, October 6
- Sunday, November 17
- Sunday, December 8
- Sunday, January 26
- Sunday, February 23
- Sunday, March 23
Rehearsal & Rite of Sending: Sunday, April 6 from 10:15-10:45 am, followed by 11:00 am Mass
Submit the Confirmation Form between September 17 and January 17. The online form includes:
Baptismal Information:
- If baptized at Saint Ambrose, simply verify.
- If baptized elsewhere, submit a physical copy of the baptismal certificate. We will return originals.
Sponsor Selection: Sponsors must be practicing, confirmed Catholics (not a parent).
Saint Name / Confirmation Name
Letter to Father Peter: The Letter of Request for Confirmation needs to be mailed or submitted to the Parish Office by March 17. For further direction and details on the content of the letter, review the Letter of Request for Confirmation overview sheet.
Participation in one retreat is required the year you plan to be confirmed.
Primary Retreat Option: November 8–10, 2024
Alternative Retreat Options: If you are unable to join the Primary Retreat Option, visit NET Ministries to explore other approved retreat opportunities. Just make sure to register and inform Justin of your alternate plan. Alternative Retreats, with approval required, also include Winter Faith Camp, Steubenville Conference, and Extreme Faith Camp.
Candidates, parents, and sponsors (if available) will participate in the Rite of Sending Mass at Saint Ambrose. Date to be announced soon.
The Sacrament will be celebrated on Tuesday, April 2 at the Cathedral of Saint Paul.
Arrival: Please arrive by 6:30 pm. Parking is limited; most is available on Dayton or Summit Avenues.
Seating: Candidates and sponsors will sit in reserved front pews. Family and guests are welcome to sit anywhere in general seating (first come, first served).
Dress: Please wear your best or purchase something appropriate that can be worn again for future special occasions.
Photography: Personal photos may be taken afterward—please refrain from standing on pews. Group photos with the Bishop will be taken. Personal photos may be taken following afterwards. Please refrain from standing on pews to take photos.
Get Involved In Youth Ministry
We encourage all Confirmation candidates to grow in faith by engaging in our Youth Ministry opportunities:
- High School Youth Group (Wednesdays)
- Monthly Extreme Faith Nights (Fridays)
- Lifeline Events
- Winter Faith Camp
- Extreme Faith Camp
- Steubenville Conference
For more information, visit our Youth Ministry Page or contact Bri directly.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Preparing for Confirmation is a meaningful journey, and questions will arise along the way. Whether you’re wondering about the new program, retreat options, or how to stay connected with a sponsor, we’re here to be a resource.
If in need of more information or have additional questions pertaining to Confirmation Preparation or Confirmation, please reach out to Justin Korteum at 651-768-3020 or at [email protected].
The best way to deepen your faith and uplift your family is by joining an adult small group or youth group. These communities nurture your spiritual growth and equip you to share that joy at home.
Looking for resources to explore on your own? Here are some excellent tools:
- Person and Identity: A Catholic ministry addressing tough topics like gender identity through the lens of faith.
- Ascension Presents on YouTube: Features inspiring content, including Fr. Mike Schmitz’s videos.
- Bible in a Year Podcast: Journey through the entire Bible in 365 days with commentary from Fr. Mike.
- FORMED: Access movies, studies, and devotionals rooted in Catholic tradition.
- USCCB: Daily Mass readings, prayers, and resources from the U.S. bishops.
- Ascension Press: Discover Catholic prayers, books, and tools for spiritual growth.
We’ve moved from structured small/large groups to a family-focused approach because we found the previous model wasn’t fostering lasting spiritual growth. Parents are the spiritual leaders of the home, and we want to support you in that role.
While it might seem easier to enroll teens in a program and expect transformation, true conversion involves freedom and invitation. We aim to make Confirmation preparation a journey the whole family takes together—one rooted in love, choice, and faith.
Life is busy—we understand! Just email Justin Korteum, Director of Evangelization & Discipleship, to let us know. While there aren’t make-up materials, we’ll follow up with you as needed.
Yes. Sunday Mass is where we give God His due and join in the sacrament of the Eucharist, made possible by Christ’s sacrifice.
Watch this video by Fr. Mike Schmitz for a powerful explanation.
We encourage you to spend time with your sponsor, share how your life is, where you are at in their faith. Pray for each other as well, especially the sponsor for their confirmation candidate.
Your sponsor can still guide you from afar! Stay in touch through regular conversations. If they can’t attend the Confirmation Mass, someone else (like a relative who is a confirmed Catholic) can stand in as their proxy.
Example: If your uncle in Virginia is your sponsor but can’t attend, your older brother or grandmother—who is also confirmed—can stand in during the Mass.
“The right and duty of parents to give education is essential, since it is connected with the
transmission of human life; it is original and primary with regard to the educational role
of others, on account of the uniqueness of the loving relationship between parents and
children; and it is irreplaceable and inalienable, and therefore incapable of being entirely
delegated to others or usurped by others.” – usccb.org “Rights and Duties of Parents.” ↩︎