Confirmation
Confirmation is a sacrament within several Christian denominations, primarily the Roman Catholic Church, Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodoxy, and some Anglican Communion traditions. This rite is considered one of the seven sacraments instituted by Christ for the grace of the Church. Here's an overview:
History and Development
- Early Church: The origins of Confirmation can be traced back to the Apostolic Age. It was initially part of the single rite of initiation, which included Baptism, Confirmation (or Chrismation in the Eastern rites), and the Eucharist.
- Separation from Baptism: By the 3rd century, due to the growth of the Church, the practice of delaying Confirmation from Baptism became common. This was often due to bishops, who were the usual ministers of Confirmation, being unable to travel to all parishes regularly.
- Western and Eastern Practices: In the West, Confirmation became distinct from Baptism, with the bishop administering the sacrament, symbolizing the completion of baptismal grace. In the East, the rite remains closely tied to Baptism, with Chrismation often administered immediately after Baptism by a priest.
Meaning and Practice
- Strengthening of Faith: Confirmation is seen as the strengthening or deepening of baptismal grace, where the baptized person is confirmed or sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit. This is considered to make the Christian a "soldier of Christ."
- Confirmation in the Roman Catholic Church: The candidate must be baptized, in a state of grace, have the intention to receive the sacrament, and be prepared to take on the responsibilities of a mature Christian life. The sacrament is conferred through the anointing with chrism (a mixture of olive oil and balsam) on the forehead, accompanied by the words: "Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit."
- Eastern Churches: In Eastern traditions, Chrismation is performed by anointing with the Holy Myron (similar to chrism) on various parts of the body, signifying the gift of the Holy Spirit. It's typically done right after Baptism, even for infants.
Confirmation in Other Denominations
- Protestant Churches: Many Protestant denominations do not recognize Confirmation as a sacrament but have a rite of Confirmation or Affirmation of Baptism, where individuals publicly affirm their faith and commitment to Christian living. This often occurs around the age of adolescence.
- Anglican Churches: Confirmation in Anglicanism often serves as an affirmation of baptismal vows, typically administered by a bishop, though not always.
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