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The Sacrament of Confirmation is a significant milestone in a young Catholic’s journey, solidifying their commitment to the faith. A key part of this ceremony is the interaction between the bishop and the confirmands. So, exactly, what does the Bishop say at Confirmation? The words spoken by the bishop are central to the sacrament, bestowing the gifts of the Holy Spirit upon those being confirmed. It’s a moment filled with grace and profound meaning.
The Bishop’s Words: A Deep Dive
The core of the Confirmation rite involves the bishop laying hands on each candidate and anointing them with chrism oil, a sacred oil symbolizing strength and consecration. While the specifics can vary slightly depending on the diocese and the bishop, the essential formula remains consistent. The bishop typically says, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” This phrase is the heart of the sacrament, signifying the reception of the Holy Spirit’s seven gifts: wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. This action and these words visibly and audibly mark the individual as strengthened and empowered to live out their Catholic faith more fully.
Following the anointing, the bishop often extends a sign of peace, usually a gentle tap on the cheek or a handshake. This gesture symbolizes the newly confirmed individual’s acceptance into the wider Catholic community and the shared bond of faith. The confirmed, or a sponsor acting on their behalf, typically responds with “Amen,” affirming their belief in what has just taken place. Understanding the significance of these words and actions helps the confirmand appreciate the depth and richness of the sacrament. Beyond the individual moment, Confirmation calls the newly confirmed to action, as evidenced by the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, which empower them for action and service.
Consider the elements in play:
- Anointing: The visual application of chrism oil.
- Words: The pronouncement, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
- Action: The laying on of hands.
The meaning of all these actions may not be immediately known, and so, continued learning is essential. It’s also worth remembering the responsibilities of the candidates:
- Be prepared to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit
- Be a witness to God’s love and grace
- Practice the works of mercy
Beyond the essentials, the bishop often offers a brief homily or address to the confirmands and the congregation. This homily usually focuses on the importance of living a life dedicated to Christ and serving others. The bishop might encourage the newly confirmed to actively participate in their parish, engage in acts of charity, and be a witness to the Gospel in their daily lives. The specific themes and messages will vary based on the bishop’s personal style and the current needs of the local church, but the underlying message remains the same: Confirmation is not an end but a beginning – a call to a deeper commitment to faith and service.
To gain a further appreciation of these sacred words and the complete rite of Confirmation, consider referring to the official documentation provided by your diocese or national conference of bishops. These resources provide valuable insights and context for this important sacrament.