Confirmation

The Holy Spirit doesn’t do half-measures—He sets hearts on fire.
If you’re ready for courage, clarity, and joy, welcome to Confirmation.

A Pastoral Welcome from Canon Peter

Dear friends,
Confirmation is not graduation—it’s mission. The Holy Spirit lights a fire in the heart and whispers, “Come, follow Me.” Whether you are a parent guiding your child or an adult rediscovering faith, know that God has been preparing this moment with patience and tenderness. Our parish community will walk with you, one step at a time, with good teaching, good humour, and great hope.

What Confirmation Is (and Isn’t)

A Sacrament of Initiation: Along with Baptism and the Eucharist, Confirmation completes our initiation into the Church.

A Personal Pentecost: The bishop (or his delegate) lays hands upon you and anoints you with sacred chrism, praying for the sevenfold gifts of the Holy Spirit—wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord.

Not “optional extras”: It’s a vital gift for a mature Catholic life—strength for witness, courage in difficulty, and joy in service.

For Young People (and families)

Who is it for?
Young Catholics who are baptised and regularly participating in Sunday Mass, ready to deepen their friendship with Jesus and take their place in the life and mission of the Church.

What we’ll do together

Engaging sessions about faith, prayer, Scripture, and the sacraments
Time in church learning how to pray (and actually praying!)
A gentle introduction to Christian service in parish or community
A simple retreat morning/afternoon to gather our hearts before the big day

What we ask of families

Come to Sunday Mass—the Eucharist is the heartbeat of preparation
Encourage conversation at home about faith and daily life
Help with practicalities—lifts, forms, dates, and cheerful reminders

New

For Adults Seeking Confirmation

Perhaps you were baptised Catholic but missed Confirmation; perhaps you’re returning to faith after some years; perhaps you’re preparing for marriage or a new ministry. You’re most welcome.

We offer a short, adult-friendly pathway (often alongside OCIA/RCIA) tailored to your experience. We’ll listen, accompany, and prepare you for a meaningful celebration of the sacrament.

Frequently asked questions

My child was baptised in another parish/country—can they be confirmed here?

Yes. We simply need a copy of the Baptism certificate and will coordinate with you.

Can a non-Catholic be a sponsor?

Sponsors must be baptised and confirmed Catholics (aged 16+) who live the faith. A non-Catholic family member can certainly be closely involved and is most welcome at the Mass.

My child hasn’t received First Holy Communion. What do we do?

Please contact us—there are gentle pathways so that the sacraments are received in a good order.

We’re new (or returning) to church and not sure where to start.

Start here. Come to Sunday Mass, introduce yourself after, or email the office. We’ll walk with you.

Is there homework?

A little. Mostly prayer, short reflections, and simple acts of service—nothing overwhelming.

What if we miss a session?

Just let us know. We’ll help you catch up.

Patron Saint: How to Choose

Begin simply with prayer: “Holy Spirit, lead me to the saint who will help me be faithful.”
Notice what stirs in your heart—hope, purity, courage—and read a short life or two without hurry.
Choose the name that fits rather than dazzles, and thank God for a friend already praying for you.
Parents, speak gently at the table; returning adults, renew the friendship you once began.

Below are nine saints to start.

St Thérèse of Lisieux

Taught the “Little Way”: holiness through small, hidden acts of love done for Jesus.

St John Henry Newman

Scholar-priest who united faith and reason, championing the obedience of a well-formed conscience.

St Josephine Bakhita

From slavery to radiant freedom in Christ; a witness to forgiveness and human dignity.

St Thomas More

Lawyer and father who kept a cheerful conscience unto martyrdom, “the king’s good servant, but God’s first.”

St Margaret Clitherow

York’s “pearl of great price,” a courageous wife and mother who sheltered priests and died for the Mass.

St Cuthbert

Northumbrian bishop and monk whose gentleness, prayer, and care for the poor made the Gospel beloved.

St Francis of Assisi

Lover of the Crucified and all creation, who rebuilt the Church by living holy poverty and joy.

St Teresa of Calcutta

Found Christ in “the poorest of the poor,” teaching that holiness begins with a willing yes to small tasks.

St Joseph

Silent guardian of Jesus and Mary; model of humble strength, purity of heart, and faithful work.

Locations

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Who We Are

Mission

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Our Community

Initiation

Catholic Life