Confirmation Preparation

The Catholic Diocese of Memphis has established 8th grade (about 14 years old) as the normal age at which a person should receive the Sacrament of Confirmation.  The diocese also establishes that Confirmation preparation is a TWO-YEAR PROCESS.  That means that youth in 7th & 8th grades (or in high school) can and should undertake this process.

What’s coming up next?

Other Important Information

In order to provide families with the most up-to-date & accurate information, we host family meetings in May of each year, so that families can get going on the Confirmation process during the summer before 7th grade.

NEXT FAMILY MEETINGS IN ENGLISH:
**Wednesday, May 15: 6:30-8:00pm in St. Mary’s School Cafeteria
**Sunday, May 19: 9:00-10:30am in St. Mary’s School Cafeteria

NEXT FAMILY MEETINGS IN SPANISH:
**Wednesday, May 22: 6:00-7:30pm in St. Mary’s School Cafeteria

Basic Requirement in the Catholic Diocese of Memphis & St. Mary’s Parish

1. Youth must be enrolled in a Catholic school or in a parish faith formation program for those two years.  In addition to regular attendance in school or faith formation, St. Mary’s also has a few other requirements, listed below.
2. During each year of the process (Year 1 & Year 2), each candidate must attend a Confirmation retreat, usually held on a Saturday afternoon & evening in the fall.  (Information on dates & cost is provided to parents as soon as they are available.)

Works of Mercy Project

Each candidate is asked to complete 15 hours of Spiritual Works of Mercy & 15 hours of Corporal Works of Mercy during each year of the Confirmation process.  Candidates & parents are required to attend an in-person interview with the Director to gain a better understanding of what is required, and the benefits of this project.

Click here for the schedule of interview times on our Sign-Up Genius page.

Required Paperwork

All of the required paperwork is available on our Confirmation Preparation Google Drive.

DURING BOTH YEARS OF THE PROCESS, candidates must get their Mass cards stamped or stickered after they attend Mass each week.  Mass cards are given out by the Children’s Faith Formation catechists or St. Mary’s School teachers.  Click here to read Fr. David’s letter about the Mass attendance cards.

There are different guidelines for adults who wish to receive this sacrament.  For that information, please see our page about the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults.