Within the Diocese of Savannah, second and ninth graders normally prepare to receive Sacraments through either St. Anne-Pacelli Catholic School or the parish's Religious Education Program.
Sacramental preparation is a two-year process. First grade is considered a preparation year for second grade reception of the sacraments of Reconciliation and Communion. Eighth grade is a preparation year for ninth grade reception of the sacrament of Confirmation. Other parishes and dioceses may have different preparation periods and different years for reception of the sacraments.
Every year of Faith Formation is important. Records of attendance are shared with other churches as requested. Likewise, St. Anne is the recipient of student attendance records for children entering our program. If a child gets behind in his or her faith formation, we will work with families to get them caught up. The best strategy, however, is to stay in the race! (2 Timothy 4:7-8)
Second graders prepare through their classes to receive the Sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist. The rituals usually occur in early February for First Reconciliation and in May for First Communion.
Important Confirmation Information
Who May Be Confirmed
Ninth Graders or older who are sufficiently prepared in the teachings of our faith as demonstrated by Sunday Mass attendance, class attendance, Saint Report, Works of Mercy Service Hours, and Retreat Attendance; who have received the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation and Holy Eucharist; and, being in the state of grace, have a sincere desire to receive the sacrament
Expectations for the Candidates
● Two years of sacramental preparation or the equivalent
● Attend Sunday Mass every weekend as well as Holy Days of Obligation
● Submit all forms, including the Baptismal Certificate, First Communion Certificate, Information Form, and Sponsor Form
● Choose a qualified Sponsor
● Choose a Saint’s name and complete a report
● Participate in the Confirmation Retreat
● Complete Works of Mercy Service Hours
Baptismal and First Communion Certificates
Copies of Baptismal and First Communion certificates are needed. If you don’t have copies, you should request them from the church of Baptism. The new Baptismal certificate will include the First Communion date. If the Confirmation candidate was baptized at St. Anne, simply let us know on the Information Form.
Sponsor Selection
The Confirmation sponsor should be a person who has been a strong role-model as a faith-filled Catholic. This person will be a companion in one’s faith journey and will vouch for one’s readiness to receive the sacrament. A godparent may be a good sponsor candidate. The involvement of the sponsor in the youth’s preparation for Confirmation is encouraged.
Sponsor Specifics:
● At least 16 years of age
● Has completed the Sacraments of Initiation (Baptism, Confirmation, and First Communion)
● Is in good standing with the Catholic Church
● And is NOT the parent of the candidate
Saint’s Name
Because Confirmation is the strengthening of the new life that God begins in our lives at Baptism, it is recommended that the Baptismal name be first preference if the Baptismal name is also a Saint’s name. If the Baptismal name is not a Saint’s name, following research and prayerful reflection, a name should be chosen from a Saint who will serve as both mentor and intercessor in the journey to the Kingdom.
Confirmation Retreat
The Confirmation retreat will focus on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit as well as other topics relative to sacramental formation. The retreat is required and must be made up if missed.
Works of Mercy Service Hours
Service projects teach ministry and mission. They serve as an authentic approach to both learning and spiritual growth. Six Works of Mercy service hours must be performed and completed with a reflection. Service hours are qualitative in terms of time spent, not quantitative in hours clocked.
Rehearsal
All candidates and their sponsors must attend the Confirmation rehearsal, the date and time to be announced.
Dress for the Sacred
Boys should wear dress pants and a button up shirt with a collar. Jacket and tie are optional. No tennis shoes, please. Girls should wear a dress/skirt and blouse. Modesty should be considered in the length of the dress and covering of the shoulders. Shoes must be safe for walking on an incline. No tennis shoes, please.