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THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

In keeping with diocesan guidelines, a preparation program for parents, sponsors, and candidates begins in September. The Diocese of Jackson confers the sacrament of Confirmation on those who have completed their twelfth year (approximately eighth grade). The preparation program includes attendance at seven classes (following the Sophia Institute Press curriculum for catechesis), completion of a class service project, and involvement by parents.

 

Older youth, college students, and adults who seek the sacrament of confirmation will undergo their a separate program of preparation determined specifically for them by the Rector, which may include attendance at the weekly Becoming Catholic Class on Thursday evenings, or private study.

Requirements for Confirmation for Adolescents:

The Sacrament of Confirmation:

  • Confers in us the full outpouring of the Holy Spirit.

  • Gives us the grace to live our faith on a daily basis even in the face of rejection or Opposition.

  • Binds us more closely to the Church.

  • Unites us more firmly to Christ.

  • Increases the gifts of the Holy Spirit in us, enriching us with the Spirit’s special strength.

  • Empowers us to spread and defend the faith by word and action.

  • It is expected that those seeking the sacrament of Confirmation will live according to the precepts of the Church, including weekly attendance at the Sunday Mass and on Holy Days of Obligation.

  • Candidates must be twelve years or older (as determined by the Diocese of Jackson).

  • The law of the Church specifies that Confirmation is the right of all the Baptized and is to be given to those who are disposed, who request the sacrament freely, and who are aware of what the sacrament entails.

  • Likewise, Church law stipulates that the pastor has the obligation to ensure that all candidates for Confirmation are adequately prepared and catechized. In Saint Mary parish, this requirement is fulled by attendance at the confirmation classes.

  • Each candidate must have a sponsor who is themselves a Baptized and Confirm Catholic in good standing.

  • Likewise, each candidate must chose a saint who will serve as their patron and under whose name they will be confirmed.

  • Ultimately, the pastor assumes responsibility for the formation of the candidates for Confirmation. Those who are approved by him to receive the sacrament will be directed to write a letter to the Bishop to request that the sacrament be conferred upon him or her.

MISSION STATEMENT

St. Mary Basilica Parish is a community of believers united by faith in Jesus Christ and committed to bringing about the kingdom of God. Parish members are encouraged to grow in faith through the celebration of the Eucharist and sacraments, by the study of the Sacred Scriptures and the Catholic Tradition, and by active participation in the ministries of the parish. Parish members are expected to be witnesses for their faith by loving support of one another and through service to the needy, the wider community, and the world mission of the Catholic Church.

CONTACT

Basilica Parish Office:

613 Main Street

Natchez, Mississippi 39120

phone 601.445.5616

fax  601.445.9631

email secretary@stmarybasilica.org

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For inquiries regarding weddings and baptisms, please contact the office.

SAFE ENVIRONMENT

The Basilica of Saint Mary is committed to providing a safe environment for all persons of every age, race, and state of life. In accordance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People promulgated by the U.S. Bishops, the Diocese of Jackson encourages any victim of abuse by Clergy or Church Staff or Volunteers to come forward and begin the healing process. We encourage any victim to contact Erika Rojas, Victim Assistance coordinator at 601.326.3736.

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