At the conclusion of Jesus’ earthly ministry, he promised his followers that he would send them the gift of the Holy Spirit who would help them to live as he had taught them and to pass on his message to all the nations. (See John 20:22 and Acts 2).

In the very early Church, Baptism and Confirmation were usually conferred by the bishop and celebrated together. However, over time, access to bishops became more difficult and Baptism came to be conferred by the local parish priest, so Confirmation began to be celebrated at an older age.

In the Sacrament of Confirmation, the bishop/priest lays his hands on the baptised person and prays that the Holy Spirit will fill the person with spiritual gifts. Then, using holy oil, the bishop/priest  makes a cross on the person’s forehead. It is usual for the person being confirmed to take on an extra name, that of a particular saint. The saint will be a source of inspiration by the way he/she lived life while on earth, and an intercessor in prayer to God.