Just as our bodies and minds grow, Catholics believe that our souls need to grow in the life of grace. Just as the human body must grow in childhood, adolescence, and then adulthood; the human soul needs to grow into maturity. The Sacrament of Confirmation is the supernatural equivalent of the growth process on the natural level. It builds on what was begun in Baptism and what was nourished in the Holy Eucharist. It completes the process of initiation into the Catholic community, and it matures the soul for the work ahead.

Confirmation means accepting responsibility for your faith and your destiny. The focus is on the Holy Spirit, who confirmed/strengthened the apostles on Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) to practice and defend their faith. The same Holy Spirit confirms Catholics during the Sacrament of Confirmation.

If you are an adult baptized Catholic who has received First Communion but never received Confirmation, please visit our RCIA / Adult Confirmation page for more information.

If your child is approaching seventh grade, or is a little older, and you want us to assist you in their Sacrament of Confirmation, please contact the parish office at 416-364-0234 or email us.

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Following are some frequently asked questions about Confirmation.

Your child must:

  • Be baptized in the Catholic Church, or another Christian denomination recognized by the Catholic Church. Basically, they must have been baptized with water and “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”
  • Have received the Sacrament of Reconciliation and First Holy Communion. If your child has not received one or both of these sacraments, contact the Parish Office.

The sacramental preparation program entails catechetical sessions, a retreat day, and rehearsals. The catechetical instruction typically takes place in person at the Cathedral for several weeks on either a Saturday or a Sunday afternoon. We will shift to online instruction only if necessary. Attendance at all classes is mandatory.

Ideally, Confirmation is conferred on the children by the Cardinal and takes place at the 12:00 noon Mass on Pentecost Sunday. Please see the schedule for the exact date.

Every person being confirmed must have a sponsor. To be a sponsor, you must:

  • Be at least 16 years, or older
  • Have received Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation
  • Be an active practising Catholic and be registered at a Catholic parish, and
  • Not be the parent of the one being confirmed