Confirmation
School Work
Sixth-class pupils prepare for the sacrament of Confirmation through their religious education programme, Grow in Love. They learn about the Gifts of the Holy Spirit, the Fruits of the Holy Spirit and the importance of the sacrament. Teachers employ interactive methods such as storytelling, arts and crafts, and music to help the children understand and internalise these teachings. Additionally, the children participate in whole-school Masses throughout the year, becoming familiar with the order, prayers, and rituals of the Mass.
Enrolment Ceremony
The Enrolment Ceremony for Confirmation is a special event marking the formal beginning of the children’s preparation for the sacrament. Held at St James’ Church, Ballinora, in the first term of sixth class, this ceremony brings together the children and their parents to commit to their faith journey. The ceremony is an opportunity for them to indicate their willingness to live up to the commitment they will make on their Confirmation Day, as well as their willingness to continue their preparation for Confirmation.
The Ceremony of Light
The Ceremony of Light is another significant milestone in the children’s spiritual development. Conducted in the church during the first or second term of sixth class, the Ceremony of Light is a pre-Confirmation ceremony and is an important event in preparing the children for Confirmation. A key part of the service is when parents hand the lighted Baptismal candle to their child, acknowledging that their child is now ready to become a responsible Christian.
The Confirmation Mass
The Confirmation Mass takes place in the third term of sixth class and is a deeply significant and joyous occasion. Held in St James’ Church, Ballinora, the Mass is a culmination of months of preparation. During the Confirmation ceremony the Bishop anoints the children with chrism and says the words ‘Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit’. The Bishop also lays his hands on the children in gesture of appointing or sending. The children are called upon to be active participants in the Church.