To begin with, the language and culture of confirmation as a rite of passage isn\u2019t going away any time soon, and so we might as well use it to our catechetical advantage. By dispensing with required confirmation preparation and reception, the sacrament can truly become a moment of conversion for Catholics, regardless of when it occurs. In this way, confirmation will take on particular importance for Catholics returning to the Church after being away for a time, especially when such a return coincides with significant life changes\u201d\u201dlike marriage for instance, or having that first baby. And young people who never drift away from the Church? They\u2019ll likely seek confirmation in their teen years anyway. Thus, for all recipients, the sacrament will cohere with their actual lived experience of faith.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s an additional catechetical value to this approach: Confirmation classes will start to mix together maturing teens, young adults, and the retired\u201d\u201dand everyone in between! Younger candidates will get to hear older Catholics share about their struggles and joys; in turn, those older Catholics will get to hear the younger candidates express their aspirations and enthusiasms.<\/p>\n
I can\u2019t think of a better way to foster the idea that confirmation (and Christianity) is really for grown-ups\u201d\u201dgrown-ups, that is, that humble themselves and come to Jesus.<\/p>\n