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Confirmation

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Confirmation is inextricably linked with Baptism. The very name of the sacrament is an indication that it does not stand as something complete in itself, but is to be regarded as a complement to and a strengthening of what had been done in Baptism. In the ideal course of events in the Christian family it takes place when the person baptized as an infant feels that the time has come when a personal act of commitment is appropriate.

There are difficulties in understanding the nature of Baptism in relation to Confirmation, particularly when it is remembered that Baptism is meant to be the sole necessary rite of initiation into the Body of Christ.

That is one reason why it is desirable, when adults come to Baptism that it should be done by the Bishop, with Confirmation and first Communion both being administered at the one service. The laying on of the hands of the Bishop and the grace of the Holy Spirit are the visible and spiritual aspects in this sacrament.