Confirmation
Confirmation is a joyful strengthening of the grace received in Baptism. In this sacrament, the Holy Spirit helps the baptized person grow more deeply rooted in Christ and more closely joined to the Church. It is a moment to receive the Spirit’s strength for a life of faith, prayer, witness, and service.
For a child, Confirmation is not a graduation from religious education or a final box to check. It is part of the Church’s sacramental initiation, received alongside First Eucharist at Christ on the Mountain. The goal of preparation is to help a child understand the faith, recognize God’s work in their life, and continue growing as a Catholic after the celebration has passed.
Parents and sponsors are important companions in this process. Their prayer, example, and encouragement help a child see that Confirmation is about a relationship with Christ lived in an actual family and parish, not simply one afternoon at church.
What is the Restored Order?
The Archdiocese of Denver follows the Restored Order of the Sacraments of Initiation. This restores the Church's historic order: Baptism first, then Confirmation, and finally First Eucharist. Confirmation is not a graduation from religious education or a sign that someone has reached adulthood. It is a sacrament that strengthens us for a lifelong relationship with Christ.
In the Archdiocese of Denver, children ordinarily prepare for First Reconciliation in second grade. They then prepare for and receive Confirmation and First Eucharist in third grade.
Read more about the Restored Order here:
Which Path is Right for You?
Children Grades 2/3
For younger children, Confirmation is received as part of the Archdiocese of Denver's Restored Order of the Sacraments of Initiation. Children ordinarily prepare for First Reconciliation in second grade, then prepare for and receive Confirmation and First Eucharist in third grade.
Preparation takes place through the parish's children's faith formation program. Parents are important companions in the process, helping their children grow in prayer, attend Mass, and learn the Catholic faith at home and in the parish community.
Students in Grade 4+
Students in grades 4-12 who need Confirmation, First Eucharist, or other sacramental preparation should contact the Religious Education Office. Each student's experience is different, so preparation may take place individually, in a small group, or through OCIA for Teens, depending on the student's needs.
Adults
Adults who have been baptized Catholic but have not received Confirmation are ordinarily prepared through the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA). OCIA is a patient process of prayer, learning, and preparation that meets people where they are. Please contact the OCIA Coordinator to talk about your faith journey and the next step.
Continue Growing in Faith
Confirmation points forward. After receiving the sacrament, children are invited to continue coming to Mass, praying with their families, learning the faith, and taking part in parish life. Christ on the Mountain offers formation, service, youth ministry, and worship opportunities that help faith continue to grow.
