The Roman Catholic Sacrament of Confirmation is a sacrament in which a baptized Catholic receives the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by a bishop or a priest designated by the bishop. The sacrament is considered one of the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church and is a continuation of the process of initiation into the Church, which begins with baptism.
The preparation for the sacrament of Confirmation typically takes place during the teenage years, although it can take place at any age after the person has reached the age of reason. The preparation involves catechesis, which teaches the person about the sacrament and its significance, and helps them to prepare themselves spiritually for the reception of the Holy Spirit.
During the sacrament of Confirmation, the person is anointed with oil, called chrism, on the forehead while the bishop or priest says, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This anointing is a sign of the seal of the Holy Spirit being imprinted on the soul of the person, which strengthens their relationship with God and the Church.
The Catholic Church teaches that the sacrament of Confirmation is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace and is a necessary step in the process of initiation into the Church. Through the reception of the Holy Spirit, the person is strengthened to live a life of faith and witness to Christ in the world.
The sacrament of Confirmation is also a moment of personal commitment to the faith, as the person confirms the promises made on their behalf at baptism. The person is called to be a witness to Christ in their daily life and to share their faith with others.
In summary, the Roman Catholic Sacrament of Confirmation is a sacrament in which a baptized Catholic receives the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by a bishop or priest designated by the bishop. The sacrament is considered a continuation of the process of initiation into the Church, and is necessary for the completion of baptismal grace. The sacrament strengthens the person to live a life of faith and witness to Christ in the world, and is a moment of personal commitment to the faith.
(E&OE)