I just got confirmed into the Catholic Church, now what?
Congratulations and welcome home to the fullness of the Catholic Faith!
Firstly, congratulations and welcome home to the fullness of the Catholic Faith! Your Confirmation is a profound moment in your life. Through this sacrament, you have been sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit, strengthened to live as a faithful disciple of Christ, and fully initiated into the Church. As St. Paul reminds us, "For you are all children of God, through faith which is in Christ Jesus. For as many of you as have been baptized in Christ, you have put on Christ" (Galatians 3:26-27, CPDV).
Now that you have been confirmed, your journey as a Catholic continues and deepens. Here are some steps to help you grow in your faith and live out your Confirmation:
1. Deepen Your Relationship with God through Prayer
Prayer is the foundation of the Christian life. Take time each day to pray, whether it's through the Liturgy of the Hours, the Rosary, Lectio Divina (prayerful reading of Scripture), or simply speaking to God from your heart. The Holy Spirit, whom you received in Confirmation, will guide you in prayer. As St. Paul says, "The Spirit Himself intercedes for us with unspeakable groanings" (Romans 8:26, CPDV).
Consider spending time in Eucharistic Adoration, where you can sit in the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. This is a beautiful way to grow closer to Christ.
2. Participate Fully in the Sacramental Life of the Church
Attend Mass regularly: The Eucharist is "the source and summit of the Christian life" (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324). Make Sunday Mass the center of your week and, if possible, attend daily Mass to receive Jesus more frequently.
Go to Confession often: Regular confession strengthens your soul, restores grace, and helps you grow in holiness. The Church recommends confessing at least once a month or whenever you are conscious of mortal sin (CCC 1457).
3. Continue Learning About the Faith
Confirmation is not a graduation but the beginning of a lifelong journey of learning and growing in faith. Study the Bible, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, and the writings of the saints. The more you understand the faith, the more you can love and live it. As St. Anselm of Canterbury said, "Faith seeks understanding."
You might also join a Bible study, a parish group, or a catechetical program to keep learning and discussing the faith with others.
4. Live Out Your Faith through Works of Charity
Confirmation strengthens you to be a witness to Christ in the world. Look for ways to serve others, especially the poor, the sick, and the marginalized. As St. James reminds us, "Faith without works is dead" (James 2:26, CPDV). Consider volunteering at your parish or in your community.
5. Discern Your Vocation
Every Christian is called to holiness and to a specific vocation, whether it be marriage, the priesthood, religious life, or single life. Pray and ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in discerning God’s plan for your life. Trust that He will lead you where you are meant to be.
6. Be a Witness to Christ
Confirmation calls you to share your faith with others. This doesn’t mean you need to have all the answers, but simply live a life of love, joy, and hope that reflects Christ. As St. Peter exhorts us, "Always be prepared to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you" (1 Peter 3:15, CPDV).
7. Stay Connected to Your Parish Community
Your parish is your spiritual family. Get involved in parish life by joining ministries, attending events, and building relationships with fellow Catholics. Community is essential for growing in faith and staying strong in your walk with Christ.
Finally, trust in the grace of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within you and will guide you each day. Remember the words of Jesus: "But the Paraclete, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of all that I have said to you" (John 14:26, CPDV). You are not alone on this journey—Christ walks with you, and the Church is here to support you!