PARISH FAITH FORMATION - CONFIRMATION


One of the foundations of our faith is the Mass. Regular Mass attendance gives children a sense of belonging to a community of love based on the love of Christ. It helps children understand that the Eucharist is the source and summit of our lives as Catholics. The Eucharist is the primary way we receive grace and are nourished spiritually. It is our highest, most perfect form of worship. Mass attendance is so important that Holy Mother Church gives it as a precept https://www.usccb.org/sites/default/files/flipbooks/catechism/494/  Missing Mass is a mortal sin. Families are strongly urged to prioritize weekly Mass attendance. Our QR Code system reflects the importance of the Mass as part of your child’s formation.


CONFIRMATION


The Archdiocese of Boston has recommended Confirmation be moved to Grade 8. We are using the following schedule to implement this:

  • 2024-25: Grades 9 & 10 were confirmed together
  • 2025-26: Grades 8 & 9 confirmed together
  • 2026-27: Grade 8 Confirmation


Mass Attendance


Weekly Mass attendance is an integral part of their formation and preparation, and is therefore expected. The 5:00 PM Mass held at St. Thomas Aquinas Church offers Confirmation students the opportunity to attend Mass prior to attending their 6:15 PM Confirmation class. This youth-oriented Mass is geared toward high school and college-aged students. Parents are expected to attend Mass with their child. This is not a drop-off event. Students use a QR Code at the end of Mass. Their attendance is one of the indicators of their readiness for Confirmation.


Confirmation Classes & Attendance


Class attendance is critical and will be a determining factor in the student’s readiness to receive the sacrament. Because our classes are unique with live presentations, there is no substitute for these components. Excessive absences may delay reception of the sacrament.

The year of formation will give them the opportunity to examine key topics of our faith:

  • God as the source of our happiness.
  • The Person and Mission of Jesus Christ.
  • Who the Holy Spirit is and what He does for us.
  • Why Mass is the key to life now and eternal life.
  • What it means to be a confirmed Catholic.


Class Format


Classes include prayer, a speaker, small group breakout sessions, activities, and the lives of the saints. Guest speakers will present in a large group format, followed by students meeting in small groups to discuss and participate in related activities. 


In addition to classes, all Confirmation students have the opportunity to participate in special events, such as Adoration, Confession, and service projects. These opportunities help students experience the fullness of our faith and the value of engaging in parish life.


Day Retreat 


The day retreat, 9-5 on a Saturday and at the parish, has become an integral part of the program. This fun and informative opportunity gives students a new way of experiencing faith outside of Mass and the classroom.  Because the retreat is part of the Confirmation program, it is expected that all students will participate.


How Families can help their Confirmation candidate


  • Attend weekly Mass as a family.
  • Pray with and for your child. Ask their saint to intercede for them.
  • Help your child choose a qualified, practicing Catholic as a sponsor. If you don’t know someone who qualifies as a sponsor, let us know.
  • Encourage your child to complete the Faith Challenges in the Google Classroom. This helps connect the classwork to their faith life outside the parish.