A New Path to Confirmation
Rooted in Relationship. Centered on Christ. Lived Through Discipleship.
Our Confirmation journey has been reimagined—not as a checklist of requirements, but as a path of discipleship that flows from real relationship with Jesus and the Church. We believe Confirmation isn’t the end of formation—it’s the beginning of a deeper, Spirit-filled life of faith.
This new process is grounded in the belief that teens grow best when they are known, accompanied, and called higher by a community that loves them.
Who is Confirmation For?
Confirmation is open to all students in 8th grade and above who are actively involved in Emmaus Groups—our small-group model of Student Discipleship for grades 7–12.
What Does the Process Look Like?
1. Belong First (Emmaus Groups)
Teens begin by participating in Emmaus Groups, where they build real friendships, engage with Scripture, and talk about how faith meets everyday life. Before preparing for the sacrament, we want every teen to know: you belong here.
2. Discern Readiness
When a student feels ready to take the next step, they’ll meet with Makenzie (our Coordinator of Student Discipleship) to talk about where they are spiritually and what Confirmation means. This helps ensure their “yes” is freely given and personally meaningful.
3. Focused Formation (8 Weeks)
Confirmation preparation happens in a focused 8-week period (January–February), where teens dive into:
- The meaning and power of the Sacrament
- The role of the Holy Spirit in their life
- The call to live as missionary disciples
This preparation includes prayer, discussion, service, and sponsor engagement. Here students will also learn about Saints and choose a saint name.
4. Retreat & Encounter
All Confirmation candidates are expected to attend a Steubenville Youth Conference in June to encounter Jesus in a deeper way and be spiritually strengthened for the journey ahead.
5. Confirmation & Beyond
The Sacrament of Confirmation is celebrated in the fall of their 9th grade year—but that’s not the end. Students continue growing through Emmaus Groups, leadership opportunities, and events like Steubenville Youth Conference or 10:10, empowered to live boldly as disciples of Jesus.
Why This Approach?
Because we believe:
- Faith is more than knowledge—it’s relationship.
- Sacraments are more than milestones—they are encounters.
- Teens are more than students—they’re called to be saints.
Want to Get Started?
We’d love to walk with you. To begin the Confirmation journey or ask questions, reach out to:
Makenzie Conner
Coordinator of Student Discipleship
📧 mconner@stpatsgh.org
📞 616-935-8739