Confirmation

The Religious Education Program for 6th , 7th and 8th graders consists of a two-year preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Students must be enrolled in 6th grade REP prior to completing the two-year Confirmation preparation in grades 7 and 8.

Please complete the Religious Education Program Registration/Volunteer Form to register for the Confirmation Program.

First Year Preparation Overview

7th grade (first year preparation) is spent in a thorough review of the Seven Sacraments with special emphasis on the Sacraments of Christian Initiation.

First Year Preparation Requirements for Confirmation:

• Class reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation within a Prayer Service
• Class Retreat
• Four Group Service Projects
• One service project, designed by each student individually
• Completion of six Homily Evaluations, three due the first semester and three due the second semester

Second Year Preparation Overview

During the 8th grade (second year preparation), there is intensive preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation with emphasis on the commitment to the Catholic faith that it requires and the living out of the Gospel message. An important part of preparing for Confirmation is the choice of a Sponsor and the choice of a name. Students are helped to understand the role of the Holy Spirit in their lives. The students gain a deeper appreciation for the Sacraments of Initiation, the last of these being Confirmation. The remainder of the Religious Education classes after Confirmation are focused on moral issues that confront young people today. Confirmed 8th graders are encouraged to continue and strengthen their connection to the Church and Parish through the Youth Ministry Program.

Second Year Preparation Requirements for Confirmation:

• Reception of the Sacrament of Reconciliation
• Attendance at an evening Light Prayer Service for Candidates, Parents and Sponsors
• Full-day Confirmation Retreat
• Individual Service Projects chosen by students (20 hours of service divided among Parish, Family, Community and School)

If you have questions, or require additional information regarding Our Lady of the Wayside’s Religious Education Program, please contact:

Patty McCarthy
(phone) 847-253-5353 x262
(email) faithformation@olwparish.org