After a lengthy consultation process with priests, religious education directors, and staff, Bishop Douglas Deshotels has decreed a change in the timing of administering the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Diocese of Lafayette, as explained in the video. This change will take effect in the upcoming school year 2023-2024, with a gradual lowering to eighth grade by the school year 2026-2027.
There are two main reasons for the change: to retain young members of the Church and to enrich them with the exceptional strength of the Holy Spirit. By moving Confirmation to the eighth grade, we can focus our catechesis on these issues at a crucial age. This allows us to give students convincing arguments for the existence of God, challenge them to understand what the Church teaches on critical social issues, and demonstrate how our faith does not conflict with science — all before they turn thirteen.
There is a need for ongoing catechesis regardless of what age confirmation is received. The constant unfolding of our faith is a process that can never be completed in this life. Confirmation is an essential step in the journey of faith, but the expectation is that children will continue to learn more and fall in love with the Church and God.
Beginning in the Fall of 2023, St. Charles Borromeo will begin this process by administering the Sacrament of Confirmation to Grades Tenth and Eleventh. After that, the process will continue seamlessly: The year 2024-2025, Grades Ninth & Tenth; the year 2025-2026, Grades Eighth & Ninth; the 2026-2027, Grade Eighth. NOTE:
Below is the registration/payment form for all students who plan on being Confirmed during the Fall of 2023. You must be at least a sophomore or junior in high school to be eligible.