Confirmation and the Gifts of the Holy Spirit

At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles like tongues of fire. Fearful men became bold witnesses to Jesus (Acts 2). In Confirmation, the same Spirit is poured out on us.

Confirmation completes the grace of Baptism. It binds us more perfectly to the Church and strengthens us to spread and defend the faith by word and action (CCC 1285). The bishop (or a priest he delegates) anoints the forehead with Sacred Chrism, saying, “Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.” It can only be received once (CCC 1304).

The seven gifts of the Holy Spirit (Isaiah 11; CCC 1831):

1. Wisdom: seeing life as God sees it.
2. Understanding: grasping the truths of faith more deeply.
3. Counsel (right judgement): choosing well.
4. Fortitude (courage): doing what is right, even when it is hard.
5. Knowledge: recognising God at work in creation and in our lives.
6. Piety: loving God as a Father.
7. Fear of the Lord (wonder and awe): reverence before God’s greatness.

When we cooperate with these gifts, the fruits of the Spirit grow in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control (Galatians 5:22–23).