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NOVENA PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Thy love. V. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created. R. And Thou shalt renew the face of the earth. Let us Pray. O God, Who didst instruct the hearts of thy faithful by the light of the Holy Spirit, grant us in the same Spirit to be truly wise and ever to rejoice in His consolation. Through Christ our Lord. Amen. (Our Father...., Hail Mary.....,Glory be.....)

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Dear Candidates for Confirmation: You are entering into a new phase of your life. You are preparing to be adults, not only in society but more importantly, in your church. This booklet is to be kept by you as a reference and guide in preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation. Many of the questions you may have about the coming months are already answered in this manual. Refer to it often. This booklet also contains much of the information you must master before satisfactorily completing our curriculum and being confirmed. Look over it carefully with your parents. Since our program is extensive, you will need the help of your parents, teachers, mentors and sponsors to accomplish all these goals. Your textbook for the program is The Catholic Faith Handbook for Youth from St. Mary’s Press. You are responsible for the textbook along with this manual. If you lose either one, you will have to pay to replace it. Periodic exams, study guides, and handouts will be given to test your knowledge throughout the year, so it is necessary that you study for these exams to ensure that you do not fall behind. Also included in this booklet are the year’s schedule, class lists, as well as checklists and information sheets that spell out all that needs to done prior to being confirmed. Our classes will be held on Wednesday evenings from 7:00 p.m.– 8:00 p.m. in Belgrade, Brooten, and Elrosa. There is also a page to fill in the due dates of projects as they come due. Please check this periodically. It is up to the YOU to have everything completed at the appropriate time and date. Please read over and be aware of the Attendance and Classroom Discipline policy contained in this manual as well. It is very important to the success of our program, and it will be enforced.

Our Teaching Staff

St. Francis de Sales St. Donatus Ss. Peter & Paul Teachers Teachers Teachers Audrey Radermacher Cheryl Weller Jan Arceneau 346-2708 346-2710 697-5694 Coordinator Coordinator Coordinator Paul Rooney Audrey Radermacher Bonnie Heinze 254-8920 346-2708 697-5590

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THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION Confirmation is a sacrament of initiation which is intimately connected with the sacrament of Baptism. Baptism is seen as the first step of the initiation process into the life of the Church. Confirmation is seen as the fulfillment of the Baptismal commitment. Baptism of infants focuses on the faith of the Church; Confirmation focuses on the faith of the individual and the role that the individual will assume in the faith community. The Rite of Baptism states that children who have been baptized as infants “must later be formed in faith…so that they may ultimately accept for themselves the faith into which they have been baptized.” Confirmation is about the person receiving the gifts of the Holy Spirit in order to mature and strengthen the Christian community.

PROGRAM PHILOSOPHY Faith is a personal gift from God. It is God’s personal offer of love and grace to each of us as individuals and as a community of believers we call church. Faith is also a human act. It is the response of trust, commitment, and submission that we make to God, as individuals and as community. Our program is designed to help our young people develop the seeds of faith that were given to them at Baptism and to enable them to gradually accept for themselves the gift of faith that they have been given by God. Building on the foundational years of faith formation, the program seeks to prepare the candidates to become strong, faithful adult members of the Catholic Church.

READINESS FOR THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION Can. 890 The faithful are obliged to receive this sacrament at the proper time. Parents and pastors of souls, especially pastors of parishes, are to take care that the faithful are properly instructed to receive the sacrament and come to it at the appropriate time.

A baptized person in grades 10, 11, or older may receive the sacrament of Confirmation when evidence of readiness on the part of the candidate has been demonstrated. Evidence of Readiness includes:

1) An expression of desire by the candidate to receive the sacrament. We encourage teens to make a personal choice without pressure from parents, peers or the parish.

2) An understanding of the sacrament as a personal commitment to assume fuller responsibility in the community and in the ministry and service aspects of parish life.

3) A sense of unity with the parish community as evidenced by participation in the liturgy and the Eucharist, with an awareness of what is taking place.

4) A basic understanding of Christianity, including a deepened awareness of Jesus, His teachings and the role of the Church in continuing his mission.

5) A witnessing in the way the candidate lives a Christian life. The candidate may be called upon to witness his/her faith in a world often dominated by outside pressures. His/her actions should reflect a loving reverence for God and his laws.

6) Total participation in requirements of the formation process and all aspects of the Confirmation Preparation program including, retreats, service components, liturgical celebrations and classroom sessions. Those unwilling or unable to fulfill these requirements would do better to delay their preparation for confirmation until that time in which they are able to do what is expected.

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CONFIRMATION INFORMATION AND DIRECTIVES FOR PARENTS AND STUDENTS

1) The parishes of St. Francis De Sales of Belgrade, St. Donatus of Brooten and Ss. Peter and Paul of Elrosa, will celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation in the Spring of 2013. You will be informed of the date as soon as it is set by the Bishop.

2) Those who will be confirmed must be in grades 10th and 11th or older. 3) The pastor has the responsibility to accept or reject any candidate based on his or her

behavior and/or their parent’s cooperation with this program. Those who do not take the preparation for Confirmation seriously will be asked to leave the program.

CLASSROOM EXPECTATIONS AND CONFIRMATION REQUIREMENTS: Confirmation classes will meet every Wednesday during the regular school year. Regular attendance at all class times is required. Be aware that there may be times when the class will run a bit longer. We will try to notify you in those cases. The Attendance and Discipline policy for the classroom is as follows:

ATTENDANCE POLICY 1) Students who wish to be confirmed must attend all class times scheduled.

Students are allowed only 3 absences during the course of the two-year program. One absence and the student will be warned. Two absences and the parents are warned. Three absences and the student and parents will meet with the Pastor and DRE before the student is allowed back in the classroom.

2) Regular participation in Holy Mass each Sunday and Holy Days of Obligation. DISCIPLINE POLICY 1) Students displaying disrespectful/disruptive behavior, disrespect for the teacher,

other students or classroom rules, or causing any other kind of disturbance that interferes with the learning process for other students, will be warned the first time. If the behavior continues, the student will be removed from the classroom and report to the coordinator. A conference will be held with the student, coordinator and teacher after regular class time and the parent will be contacted regarding the behavior.

2) If there is a repeated episode of disruptive behavior the student will be removed from the class and a conference will be held with the PARENT, STUDENT, TEACHER and COORDINATOR. They will be permitted back into class only when accompanied by a parent. The parent will be required to remain in the classroom until the student’s behavior changes.

3) If repeated misbehavior continues, the teacher in consultation with the Director of Religious Ed. and the parents will discuss any disciplinary solutions that are needed beyond these points including possibly delaying Confirmation. This may include expelling the student completely from the program. (Diocesan policy discourages against “home-schooling” students for Confirmation since it is a contradiction to the theology of initiation into the Christian community.)

Our Religious Education Program relies on our volunteer catechists. It is only through their generosity and desire to share our faith that this program exists. The teacher is under NO obligation to keep a student in class if they are keeping others from learning.

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PARENT PARTICIPATION Parents are encouraged to be actively involved with their son/daughter(‘s) preparation for this sacrament. We ask parents to:

• Frequently ask their teen about class topics and readings. • Guide them in their service hours and works of Mercy. • Provide transportation, if necessary, to and from class or other related activities. • Bring their teen to Mass each weekend. • Attend meetings as they arise. • Volunteer to help at the retreat or other related activities • Pray for their teen throughout the entire program

During the course of the next two years Confirmants will be required to do the following:

• Classroom exercises and written tests will be given throughout the year. Parents are to make sure their student is prepared for each class.

• Each student is to have an understanding of the basic truths of our Catholic Church contained

in this booklet and in the textbook.

• Every Candidate needs to know the Catholic Prayers in this booklet.

• Anyone not baptized here in one of the parishes must present a Baptismal Certificate to his/her teacher at the requested time during the program. Just call the parish he/she was baptized in and have them send a copy to you if you do not have one.

• The confirmation student needs to choose a Confirmation name during the program. (see

page 14 for more details)

• Each Confirmant must find an adult mentor who will spend time with them throughout the two-year program sharing their faith and doing various activities together. Mentors must be at least 25 years old or more. More information about this will be forthcoming (also see page 13).

• The Confirmant must obtain a Sponsor who will be there at the ceremony and support them in

their decision to be fully initiated into the Catholic Church. (see page 15)

• Each Confirmant is to write a letter of request to the Bishop which is given to the pastor. This letter states the reasons why he/she wants to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation at this time and demonstrates to the bishop what they have learned. (See page 16 for a sample letter.)

• Twenty hours of Community Service and 5 Spiritual events are required by each student

during the program. These hours must be approved beforehand by the Coordinator or DRE for them to count. (see pages 10-12).

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• Every Candidate is required by the Diocese to attend a retreat dedicated to exploring one’s spiritual journey to God with Christ before being Confirmed. We will provide this retreat experience for all the students. Every student is required to attend the retreat. No exceptions. Look on the “Important Dates” page for details. Important: The retreat does NOT count as a spiritual event!

• A Major Written Examination (of 100 pts.) will be given near the end of the program. This

test covers all the points in our Confirmation program and reviews many of the teachings of the Catholic Church. Passing this test is of major importance. Not passing this exam could mean a delay in your child getting Confirmed. Parents should help their child study for the exam before this date. (See page 28)

• On the day of Confirmation, the Bishop or Bishop’s representative will interview the students

to see how much they have learned. Each student must be prepared to answer any questions the Bishop may ask them. He will pick the students at random. Don’t embarrass yourself by not knowing the material or the answer to his questions.

Additional directions and details for some of these activities and others will be forthcoming throughout the program over the next two years.

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Confirmation Students

St. Donatus Grade 9 (2) Samuel Kollman Benjamin Wetzel

Grade 10 (9) Tristan Fadness Randeane Gafjken Austin Kollman Jordan Kollman Daisha Meyer Hunter Murdock Justin Schmitz Alex Schumann Megan Weller

St. Francis de Sales Grade 9 (5) Grade 10 (7) Tommy Cebulla Brooke Hubert Mitchell Hubert Haley Rooney Trustin Ziemer

James Boogaard William Borgerding Jackson Gregory Taylor Gregory Rebecca Gruber Sadie Tollefson Mackenzie Winter

Ss. Peter & Paul Grade 9 (2) James Kuefler Elise Zenzen Grade 10 (9) Cole Arceneau Tyler Borgerding Shawn Felling Weston Gregory Katelyn Heinze Katie Hieserich Stephanie Korf Victoria Wiener Cassidy Zenzen

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ST. DONATUS, ST. FRANCIS DE SALES, AND SS. PETER AND PAUL REL. ED. HIGH SCHOOL AND CONFIRMATION CALENDAR FOR YEAR OF 2011-2012

Date Sept 28 Parent/Student Confirmation Orientation Meeting at the Ss. Peter & Paul Church (Elrosa) for all 9th & 10th graders and parents in all three parishes with Jo Ann D.R.E. at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 5 CLASSES BEGIN Baptismal information due Oct. 12 Class Oct. 19 NO CLASSES (E.M.) Oct. 26 Class Nov. 2 Class Nov. 9 Class Nov. 16 Class Nov. 23 NO CLASSES THANKSGIVING VACATION Nov. 30 Class Dec. 7 Class Dec. 14 Class Dec. 21 NO CLASSES CHRISTMAS VACATION Dec. 28 NO CLASSES CHRISTMAS VACATION Jan. 4 Class Mentor’s name due for all Confirmation students Jan. 11 Class Jan. 18 Class Jan. 25 Class Feb. 1 Class (Coordinators talk to classes about St. Blasé) Feb. 8 Class Feb. 15 Class First Mentoring assignment due for all Confirmation students Feb. 22 Class ASH WEDNESDAY MASS: planned and held in Brooten 7:30 p.m. for all RE High School Students from all three parishes. All High School students must attend. Feb. 29 Class Lenten Confessions in Belgrade grades 7-10 at 7:05 p.m. Mar. 7 Class Lenten Confessions in Elrosa grades 7-10 at 7:05 p.m. Mar. 14 Class Mar. 21 Class Lenten Confessions Brooten grades 7-10 at 7:15 p.m. Mar. 28 Class Apr. 4 NO CLASSES HOLY WEEK…. Apr. 11 Class Second Mentoring assignment due for all Confirmation students Apr. 18 Class Apr. 25 LAST DAY OF CLASS

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IMPORTANT DATES FOR STUDENTS AND PARENTS

The following should be completed by the following dates: (fill in these dates as your teacher gives them to you) September 28, 2011 turn in Baptismal Certificates and information. January 4th, 2012 Choose an adult mentor and give the name to your teacher. August or Sept 2012 Attend Confirmation Summer Retreat. _________________ Choose a Confirmation name. Write a paragraph on that saint

and tell why you chose the name. _________________ Choose a Sponsor and give the name to your teacher. (Sponsor

must be Catholic and confirmed.) _________________ Letter to the Bishop requesting the Sacrament of

Confirmation along with reasons why, is due. _________________ Complete 20 hours of Corporal Works of Mercy _________________ Complete five Spiritual Works of Mercy _____ Written Exam (100 pts.) _____ Practice for Confirmation Mass. _________________ Confirmation Mass. The Bishop of the Diocese will interview the

Confirmants for the Sacrament of Confirmation. The celebration for St. Francis De Sales, St. Donatus and Ss. Peter & Paul will be celebrated together at St. Louis Catholic Church.

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CONFIRMATION SERVICE PROJECT IDEAS We can do no great things, only small things with great love. Blessed Teresa of Calcutta We are all called to live as disciples of Christ. This requires taking to heart Christ’s call to serve others. Participating in service-oriented events gives us a real-life experience of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ. The following are ideas or examples of possible projects. *** Other suggestions must be approved by the DRE or Coordinator. No one service project is to be counted for more than 5 hours. When doing Confirmation Service Projects, no monetary compensation can be accepted, work for your immediately family is not accepted (this is your duty as a family member). It must be an act of true charity for others. After completing a project you must fill out a Record of Corporal/Spiritual Works sheet. (see page 11)

I. Corporal Works of Mercy (20 hours of Physical Service to the parish and community) A. Visit a shut-in, or homebound person at his or her home. B. Assist in cleaning parish church, school, center or help decorate for holiday seasons. C. Go to a parish council, Christian Mothers, Mission group, Catholic United or Knights of Columbus meeting. Write a report on the events that took place. D. Help at any parish function (ie. breakfasts, funerals, bazaar, suppers, etc.) E. Be a member of the Parish Youth Group and take in a Youth Group function that is designed to help others. F. Organize a collection of toys, clothing, hats, and other items for needy children or the missions. G. Deliver mail or groceries or run errands for an elderly person, shut-in or homebound person. H. Go to a Nursing home and visit with the residents. I. Volunteer at a local hospital. J. Volunteer at an animal shelter or local Humane Society. K. Volunteer at the local library. L. Organize a group to clean up community parks, sidewalks, or roadways. M. Participate in a social concerns organization at school or volunteer your time to help with vision and hearing screening. N. Volunteer for the local Habitat for Humanity. O. Research and educate yourself and others on environmental issues. P. Organize a presentation or drama for Elementary children that teaches them peaceful solutions to everyday problems, or something similar. Q. Rake leaves, shovel snow or mow lawns for those who need help with these tasks. R. Read to an elderly person with failing eyesight. S. Get involved with the local chapter of Special Olympics. T. Educate yourself and others on issues people with disabilities face. **All other ideas must be approved by the Coordinator or DRE

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II. Spiritual Works of Mercy: (choose 5 of the below Spiritual Service to self or others) A. Attend the Diocesan Youth Rally. B. Participate in three or more non-obligatory masses (not a Sunday or Holy Day Mass). Pray for personal needs and those of others. C. Participate in a Lenten Way of the Cross or make one yourself or with a group of friends. Write a short essay on what the Lord’s passion is all about. D. Visit the Cemetery and say the Rosary for the dead. E. Lead a rosary, by yourself or with a group, in your church before Mass. F. Attend the Holy Thursday, Good Friday or Easter Vigil Masses. Describe what took place. G. Volunteer for a part in the Religious Ed. Mass on Ash Wednesday. H. Read the Acts of the Apostles and write a 2 page summary on Pentecost and Paul’s journeys. I. Attend Eucharistic Adoration for an hour during one of the scheduled parish times. Write a

paragraph on how you felt during and after this time. J. Be an altar server at Sunday Mass or attend Youth choir practice and sing at Sunday Mass. (It will take 2 Sunday Masses as an altar server to count as one spiritual event. For choir, it will take one practice time and one Sunday Mass singing to count for one event. K. Attend the Lenten Famine, Christian Concerts or other parish events. Describe how this affected you. L. Volunteer to be a helper for Elementary Religious Ed activities, e.g. Vacation Bible School, Christmas program, etc. M. Attend a Youth Conference over the summer months. N. Participate in a service/mission trip in the summer. (You can get up to 10 hours of community service hours too!) O. Attend a TEC retreat. P. Organize a group of fellow students for prayer time or Bible study at a time other than regular Rel. Ed. hours. Q. Read and study books from the Bible. Write an essay on how God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit were present in each of the readings.

***For more information on any of the retreats or mission projects contact JoAnn Braegelman

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Name:_______________________________________

RECORD OF CORPORAL/SPIRITUAL WORKS OF MERCY

(Check one of the following) Spiritual Event ___________ Corporal Hour ___________

1. Description of the project or event. Also list name or organizations name you helped.

2. Dates and hours spent on project or event.

3. What was your role in the project or event? Please describe.

4. How does this project or event relate to the ministry of Jesus and the Church?

5. What did you learn from participating? (list three things)

1. 2. 3.

Signature of project/event Supervisor Date (Copies of this sheet will be available from your teacher as you need them.)

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CHOOSING YOUR MENTOR

A mentor is defined in the dictionary as a wise and faithful counselor, a trusted counselor or guide. This might sound a bit intimidating, but a mentor can be just about anybody and mentoring can take place almost anywhere. Within the context of this program, however, a mentor is someone who has life experience in living their life as a witness to their faith and who is willing to share that faith with another person through prayer, example and friendship. Some of the very first mentors in our history are found in the Bible. Moses mentored Joshua, Naomi mentored Ruth, Elizabeth mentored Mary and of course Jesus mentored his disciples by asking them to put down their nets to “Come, follow me”. In each case, someone with life experience or wisdom, helped another, younger person to discover how to become more mature in their faith. Mentors are more than friends. Mentors are friends who want to teach and help others by modeling and encouraging them to live a successful spiritual life. As a part of the Confirmation program you will choose an adult member of the Catholic Church who is willing to act as a mentor for you. By forming a mentoring relationship, you are actually forming a relationship that is centered in Christ. The mentor and candidate will hopefully enter into a spiritual journey together that will strengthen and deepen each individual’s faith. While this relationship forms and grows it is important to realize that it is Christ who is forming this relationship. “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in their midst”. (Matt. 18:20) After you decide who you would like to have as your mentor, turn the name in to your teacher by the assigned due date (more information forthcoming). You and your mentor will each receive a handbook to use as a guide for your meetings. You will find more detailed information about the whole process in the Mentoring Handbook, including expectations of the program, and how to go about choosing someone to be a mentor. Please refer to it for answers to your questions about the mentoring process. While it may be true that an older brother, sister, or friend may be a role-model for you, for the purposes of achieving the best success in this program we are asking that your Mentor be at least 25 years of age. Meetings with your Mentor must be face-to-face, not over the phone or text messaging! Therefore, do not choose someone who lives a long distance away. If you are having trouble finding someone who fits the qualifications of a Mentor please contact JoAnn Braegelman or your teacher. There are many members of our parishes who would love to be asked to be your Mentor. You will receive your mentoring assignments throughout the two-year program. Watch your Calendar for due dates!

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CHOOSING YOUR CONFIRMATION NAME Your name gives you an identity; it tells others who you are. When you were baptized, your parents chose your name. If you do not know your parents’ reasons for choosing your name, ask them about it. Now that you are about to be confirmed, it is time to choose the name you will take as a sign of your growth in faith. The tradition of taking on a new name to show a new role can be traced back to the Old Testament. When Abram was called to lead his people to believe in the one God, his name was changed from Abram, meaning “father of many,” to Abraham, meaning “father of many nations.” Again in the New Testament we find that Simon’s name changed to Peter. Simon means “reed” while Peter means “rock.” Simon became Peter because he was to become the rock upon which Jesus founded His Church. Saul became Paul as God called him to preach to the gentiles. Your Confirmation name should reflect your new role as a mature Christian. Perhaps you would like to take the name of a Saint whom you admire. The only limit that is placed on your choice is that it must be a saint’s name (or a variation of that name). After you decide on a name, look up some information on the saint whose name you chose. Then write a short essay explaining why you chose that name. Every saint is known for particular qualities or virtues. By imitating the qualities of this saint, how can you become a better Christian?

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CHOOSING YOUR SPONSOR The choice of a sponsor for Confirmation is a very important one. It is an honor to be chosen as a sponsor, but there is much more to the role than just standing behind you on Confirmation night. Sponsorship implies a real appreciation of our faith with diligent practice of the same, and a sense of responsibility toward the person being confirmed. The sponsor’s role is to assist the person in Christian initiation by supporting and encouraging the candidate throughout the program and in their life in the Church. The sponsor 1) Witnesses, prays, and celebrates Mass on Sunday and receives the sacraments

regularly; one whose experience as a practicing Catholic is an invaluable source for helping you to make decisions about your own life as a Catholic

2) Must have received the three sacraments of initiation: Baptism, Eucharist and Confirmation and be 18 years of age or older.

3) Must be a member in good standing of the Catholic Church. 4) He/She takes an interest in the program you are following and would be willing to

accept the invitation you send to take part in the special liturgies celebrated during the preparation program

5) He/She knows you well enough to say before the parish when the time comes that you are someone who is freely choosing to celebrate Confirmation.

Ask yourself who best fits these qualities? Consider your godparent(s). Are they a good choice for a sponsor? Keep in mind that your godparents spoke for you at baptism. Since Confirmation completes what is begun in baptism, it is most appropriate that a godparent also be the sponsor at confirmation, but that is your choice to make. Perhaps you would like your Mentor to be your sponsor as well. They have taken an active role in your preparation for Confirmation thus far, so they may be an appropriate choice as a sponsor. After you have written to or contacted someone of your choice and have received a favorable response, submit this person’s name to your teacher with any other information that is required. Remember: Your sponsor must be a Confirmed Catholic, a person of good standing in the faith, one who shares in the Eucharist and one who tries to live out their Catholic Christian life. He or she cannot be your parent. May the Holy Spirit be with you as you choose your sponsor! Pray for this person, that, moved by the same Spirit, he or she will accept the role with a prayerful, enthusiastic response.

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SAMPLE LETTER OF REQUEST TO THE BISHOP BY CANDIDATES TO BE CONFIRMED

(These letters will be forwarded to the Bishop for review so do a good job.) Dear Bishop __________________________: (Bishop’s Name) As I near the end of the Confirmation program, I am requesting that the Sacrament of Confirmation be conferred upon me. I believe that I have grown considerably as a Catholic since the program began, and I wish to become a full member of the Church. I have come to know and appreciate my Catholic faith, and how it can help my life. Through my service projects I have made an effort to reach out to others and live more like Christ. I especially enjoyed (state something you enjoyed and one way in which you have grown in your faith by the work you have done in class or in your service projects for the parish): All this has helped me have a greater understanding of who God is and His love for us. With the special Gift of the Spirit I hope to do my part to make this a better the world. Sincerely in Christ, __________________________________ (Candidate’s Name) You may also want to include the following:

• What does it mean for you to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation? • What have you done to prepare for the Sacrament of Confirmation? • Why did you choose the sponsor you have? • What are some ways that you plan to serve your parish after Confirmation?

THIS IS JUST AN EXAMPLE OF HOW YOUR LETTER SHOULD READ. IT WOULD BE BEST FOR YOU TO USE ALL YOUR OWN WORDS.

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GENERAL ITEMS AND INFORMATION TO KNOW FOR THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION

Know the following traditional Catholic prayers: _______The Glory Be _______The Lord’s Prayer _______Hail Mary _______Apostle’s Creed _______Act of Contrition _______Prayer to the Holy Spirit _______Act of Faith _______Act of Hope _______Act of Love _______The Angelus (The Angel of the Lord...) _______Grace Before Meals _______Grace After Meals _______Morning Offering _______Evening Offering _______How to say the Rosary _______Mysteries of the Rosary: (Joyful, Sorrowful, Glorious, Luminous) Read, Study, and be able to list: _______10 Commandments _______Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit _______Seven Sacraments _______Eight Beatitudes _______Three kinds of Grace _______Spiritual Works of Mercy _______Corporal Works of Mercy _______Seven Capital Sins _______Seven Sacraments _______Three Theological Virtues _______Four Cardinal Virtues _______Study and know the main points from textbook Study and know the items on the Study Sheet for the Final exam _______Read, study, and know the sheet, “Review Questions from the Diocese” (Questions #1-44 in

this booklet.) USE THIS CHECK LIST TO MARK OFF AS YOU MASTER EACH ITEM

Please note: The Pastor recommends candidates to the Bishop for Confirmation. This will be done provided the candidate has fulfilled all requirements as outlined in this policy handbook.

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SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

WISDOM

This gift helps us see that there is another viewpoint or vision of the world: God’s. The Christian community becomes aware through the gift of wisdom that life is open to many possibilities of God’s saving grace and presence. This gift makes us able to love and enjoy things of God, especially when we live and learn about them. It makes us want to help know how wonderful God is.

KNOWLEDGE This gift broadens the minds and hearts of Christians so that when they come together they can learn and share with one another. We know who we are as Catholics by sharing together in worship, instruction, and prayer. The gift of knowledge helps us to know more about God and what He expects of us by studying what He has created.

COUNSEL (Right Judgment) This gift frees us from the agony of making hard decisions all by ourselves. We can turn to the Holy Spirit in the Catholic Christian community for help and guidance. Sometimes this takes place in the Sacrament of Penance. At other times the gift of counsel reaches us through our fellow Christians who are ready to listen to our problems and help us. This gift also helps us to tell right from wrong and to choose only what’s right, even when this is hard.

COURAGE (Fortitude) This gift frees us to live firmly by faith instead of by fear. It helps Christians choose consistently the right way to live in spite of disappointments and difficulties. From this gift, the community of believers grows stronger and surer in the Spirit. Courage makes us brave, so that we will carry out our duties as Christians cheerfully, patiently, and fearlessly.

UNDERSTANDING This gift enables us to “stand under” or gain deeper insight into what we believe by faith. As an understanding community, the Catholic Church respects and encourages individual ways of expressing the one faith shared in the Lord. This gift helps us to see more deeply into everything we already believe by faith.

LOVE (Piety) This gift frees us to reverence and praise God in the worship and prayer life of the Catholic Church. It also helps Christians to see God’s holiness reflected in other people, in nature and in all of God’s creations. Piety helps us to love God as our dear Father and to worship Him. This gift also helps us to love all people as God’s children.

REVERENCE (Fear of the Lord) This gift fills us with the right kind of fear, namely, fear of separating ourselves from God, our loving Father, and from those we call brothers and sisters in Christ. Reverence helps us to have a great respect for God and avoid any kind of offense against our loving Father.

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PRAYERS TO KNOW

APOSTLES CREED I believe in God, the Father almighty Creator of heaven and earth and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary, suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day He rose from the dead. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come to judge the living and the dead. I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and life everlasting. Amen.

GLORY BE TO THE FATHER Glory Be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen

THE LORD’S PRAYER Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be Thy name. Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.

THE HAIL MARY Hail Mary, full of grace the Lord is with you. Blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb, Jesus. Holy Mary, Mother of God, pray for us sinners, now and at the hour of our death. Amen.

THE ANGELUS (V.) The angel of the Lord declared unto Mary. (R). And she conceived by the Holy Spirit. H. Mary (V.) Behold the handmaid of the Lord. (R.) Be it done to me according to your word. H. Mary (V.) And the Word was made Flesh. (R.) And dwelt among us. H. Mary. (Let us pray:) Pour forth, we beseech Thee, O Lord, Thy grace into our hearts that we to whom the Incarnation of Christ, Thy Son, was made known by the message of an angel, may by His Passion and cross be brought to the glory of His resurrection through the same Christ our Lord. Amen.

AN ACT OF CONTRITION O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended You, and I detest all my sins, because I dread the loss of heaven and the pains of hell, but most of all because I have offended you, My God, who are all good and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace, to confess my sins, to do penance and to amend my life. Amen.

ACT OF FAITH O my God, I firmly believe all the truths your holy Catholic Church teaches because you have revealed them, who can neither deceive nor be deceived. Amen.

ACT OF HOPE

O my God, relying upon your infinite goodness and promises, I hope to obtain pardon for my sins, the help of your grace, and life everlasting, through the merits of Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior. Amen.

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ACT OF LOVE O my God, I love you above all things with my whole heart and soul because you are infinitely good and worthy of all my love. I love my neighbor as myself for love of you. I forgive all who have injured men, and I ask pardon of all whom I have injured. Amen.

GRACE BEFORE MEALS Bless us, oh Lord, and these thy gifts which we are about to receive from thy bounty through Christ our Lord. Amen.

GRACE AFTER MEALS We give you thanks for all these benefits, O Lord, who lives and reigns forever. May the souls of the faithful departed through the mercy of God rest in peace. Amen.

MORNING PRAYER O my God, I offer You every thought, word and act of today. Please bless me my God and make me good today. Amen.

EVENING PRAYER Protect us Lord, as we stay awake; watch over us as we sleep, that awake we may keep watch with Christ, and asleep, rest in his peace. Amen.

PRAYER TO THE HOLY SPIRIT Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Thy faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Thy love. Send forth Thy Spirit and they shall be created and Thou shall renew the face of the earth. Amen.

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INFORMATION SHEET

TEN COMMANDMENTS 1) I, the Lord am your God. You shall have no strange gods besides me. 2) You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain. 3) Remember to keep holy the Lord’s Day. 4) Honor your father and your mother. 5) You shall not kill. 6) You shall not commit adultery. 7) You shall not steal. 8) You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 9) You shall not covet your neighbor’s spouse. 10) You shall not covet your neighbor goods.

THE GREATEST COMMANDMENT You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.

THE BEATITUDES Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn: for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness: for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful: for they shall be shown mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart: for they shall see God. Blessed are the peacemakers: for they shall be called children of God. Blessed are those persecuted for the sake righteousness: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Wisdom, Understanding, Counsel (Right Judgment), Courage (Fortitude), Knowledge, Love (Piety) and Reverence (Fear of the Lord).

THE FRUITS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT Charity, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Generosity, Gentleness, Faithfulness, Modesty, Self-control, Chastity.

THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS Baptism, Reconciliation/Penance (confession), Holy Eucharist (Communion), Confirmation, Marriage, Holy Orders, Anointing of the Sick.

THE FOUR GOSPELS/EVANGELISTS Matthew, Mark, Luke and John

THE TWELVE APOSTLES Peter, James the greater, John, Matthew, Simon the Zealot, Jude, Andrew, Philip, James the less, Mathias, Thomas, Bartholomew.

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THE SPIRITUAL WORKS OF MERCY To admonish the sinner. To instruct the ignorant. To counsel the doubtful. To comfort the sorrowful. To bear wrongs patiently. To forgive all injuries. To pray for the living and the dead.

THE CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY

To feed the hungry. To give drink to the thirsty. To clothe the naked. To visit the imprisoned. To shelter the homeless. To visit the sick. To bury the dead.

THE THEOLOGICAL VIRTUES

Faith, Hope and Charity.

THE CARDINAL VIRTUES Prudence, Justice, Fortitude, Temperance

THE THREE KINDS OF GRACE

Sanctifying Grace, Actual Grace, and Sacramental Grace.

THE MYSTERIES OF THE ROSARY Joyful Mysteries--Annunciation, Visitation, Birth of our Lord, Presentation at the Temple, Finding at the Temple Sorrowful Mysteries--Agony in the Garden, Scourging at the Pillar, Crowning of Thorns, Carrying of the Cross, Crucifixion Glorious Mysteries--Resurrection, Ascension, Descent of the Holy Spirit, Assumption, and Coronation Luminous Mysteries—Baptism of our Lord, Wedding at Cana, Proclamation of the Kingdom of God, Transfiguration, Institution of the Eucharist

------------------------------------------------------- CAPITAL SINS

Pride, Covetousness, Lust, Anger, Gluttony, Envy, Sloth.

SINS AGAINST THE HOLY SPIRIT Despair of ones salvation, Presumption of saving oneself, Resisting the known truth, Envy of the grace of others, Obstinacy in one’s sins, Final impenitence.

SINS THAT CRY TO HEAVEN FOR VENGEANCE Voluntary murder, Sodomy (sins against nature), Taking advantage of the poor, Defrauding a workman of his wages.

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“Review Questions from the Diocese” The following questions and answers are some of the basic teachings of the Catholic faith that the Diocese of St. Cloud and the Bishop expects each student to know. The Bishop’s representative will be scheduled to come in one day and give an Oral Examination to the students with these questions in mind. On Confirmation night, the Bishop himself will also interview the students and expect them to know the answers to these questions as well. Please know them before the interview date. GOD 1. WHAT TERM DO CATHOLICS USE TO DESCRIBE THE MYSTERY OF THREE PERSONS IN ONE GOD? The Trinity. There are three persons in one God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. 2. WHO IS GOD THE FATHER? God the Father is the Creator, the author of all life who loved us so much that He sent His only Son to live among us and show us how to do His will. 3. WHO IS JESUS CHRIST? He is the Son of God, fully human and fully God. He is the second person of the Trinity. He was born of Mary by the power of the Holy Spirit and is our Redeemer. 4. WHAT WORD SUMS UP THIS MYSTERY OF GOD’S BECOMING HUMAN? The Incarnation. 5. WHEN DO WE CELEBRATE THE INCARNATION----GOD TAKING FLESH? At Christmas. 6. WHAT IS THE MOST IMPORTANT AND SACRED TIME OF YEAR FOR CATHOLICS AND WHAT DO WE CELEBRATE? Holy Week. We celebrate Christ’s passion, death and Resurrection. We call it the Paschal Mystery---passing over from death to life. 7. WHO IS THE HOLY SPIRIT? The Third Person of the Blessed Trinity. The Spirit is called the Gift of the Father, the Spirit of Love and Truth. The Holy Spirit is God who leads us to wholeness and holiness. 8. WHEN IS THE MOST IMPORTANT CELEBRATION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT? Pentecost Sunday---a time when we celebrate the Spirit who came upon the Apostles after Jesus’ Resurrection and Ascension, and who has been guiding the Church ever since. Pentecost is celebrated 50 days after Easter. 9. WHY ARE THE “SIGN OF THE CROSS” AND “GLORY BE...” GOOD REMINDERS OF OUR BELIEF IN GOD? Because in both we recall the presence of God---Father, Son and Holy Spirit--in our life.

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THE CHURCH 10. WHAT IS THE CHURCH? The church is the new People of God. It is the Body of Christ on earth. We are all members of the Body of Christ. 11. WHAT IS THE MISSION OF THE CHURCH? To bring the Gospel of Christ to all people. 12. WHAT ARE THE “MARKS” OR “CHARACTERISTICS” OF THE CHURCH? At Mass we profess our belief in the Church as “one, holy, catholic and apostolic.” These are the marks of the Church. 13. WHAT MEANING DOES EACH MARK HAVE TO US AS BAPTIZED MEMBERS OF THE CHURCH? One---our unity as Catholics is based upon “one spirit, one God, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all”. We are one “Body of Christ”. Holy---because God has saved us in and through Jesus and sealed us in the Spirit, we are made holy as a people. We are called to be holy by doing God’s will as Jesus did. Catholic---(with a small ‘c’)---our faith is not limited to any particular class, race, or place in this world. The Church is ‘universal’; that is, all people are welcome to follow Jesus as members of the Church. Apostolic---We believe our roots can be traced back to Jesus’ Apostles who were given the command to spread the Good News of salvation to everyone. 14. WHAT BOOK IS OUR GUIDE? The Bible 15. WHAT ARE THE TWO MAJOR PARTS OF THE BIBLE? The Old and New Testaments (Sometimes referred to as the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures). 16. HOW DO WE KNOW IF OUR INTERPRETATION OF THE BIBLE IS CORRECT? As we listen to and read the Bible, the teachings and traditions of our Church’s community help us to correctly interpret and live out faithfully what God wants us to do. 17. HOW MANY SACRAMENTS ARE THERE? Seven Sacraments 18. HOW MAY THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS BE DIVIDED? Into Sacraments of Initiation, Sacraments of Healing and Sacraments of Ministry. 19. WHAT ARE THE SACRAMENTS? The Sacraments are special signs of God’s Love and Life. They are actions of Jesus combined with our actions as a Church to give us the Spirit of God and new life as Christians, and to make us holy people. 20. WHAT ARE THE SACRAMENTS OF INITIATION? The Sacraments of Initiation are Baptism, Confirmation and Holy Eucharist. These bring us into the full life of the Catholic Christian Community. 21. WHAT ARE THE SACRAMENTS OF HEALING? The Sacraments of Healing are Reconciliation (Penance) and Anointing of the Sick. 22. WHAT ARE THE SACRAMENTS OF MINISTRY? Marriage and Holy Orders.

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23. WHO IS THE LEADER OF OUR DIOCESE AS SUCCESSOR OF THE APOSTLES? The Bishop is. The bishop of our diocese is, Bishop John Kinney. 24. HOW DO THE BISHOPS THROUGHOUT THE WORLD HELP GOVERN AND GUIDE THE PEOPLE OF GOD? The bishops who lead the various dioceses throughout the world do so in union with the Bishop of Rome (the Pope). Their mission is to ensure that Catholic teaching of faith and morals remains faithful to Christ’s command. They must see to it that the People of God in their care have the Word of God preached to them and that the sacraments are celebrated. 25. WHO IS THE SUPREME LEADER OF THE CHURCH? The Pope (Pope Benedict XVI) is the Bishop of Rome, the successor of Saint Peter, the leader of the Apostles. 26. WHAT ARE THE TEN COMMANDMENTS? The 10 Commandments are the commandments God gave to Moses as found in the Book of Exodus. They are: 1. I, the Lord, am your God. You shall have no other Gods besides me. 2. You shall not take the name of the Lord, your God, in vain. 3. Remember to keep holy the Lord’s day. 4. Honor your father and mother. 5. You shall not kill. 6. You shall not commit adultery. 7. You shall not steal. 8. You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor. 9. You shall not covet you neighbor’s wife. 10. You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor. 27. WHAT ARE THE TWO GREAT COMMANDMENTS AS GIVEN BY JESUS? You shall love the Lord with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind and with all your strength. You shall love your neighbor as yourself. 28. WHAT ARE THE CORPORAL WORKS OF MERCY? The corporal works of mercy deal with the physical well-being of others. They are: feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, visit the imprisoned, shelter the homeless, visit the sick, bury the dead. 29. WHAT ARE THE SPIRITUAL WORKS OF MERCY? The spiritual works of mercy deal with the spiritual and emotional well being of others. They are: admonish the sinner, instruct the ignorant, counsel the doubtful, comfort the sorrowful, bear wrongs patiently, forgive all injuries, pray for the living and the dead. 30. WHAT ARE THE BEATITUDES WHICH CHRIST NAMED IN THE “SERMON ON THE MOUNT’?

Blessed are the poor in spirit; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are they who mourn; for they shall be comforted. Blessed are the meek; for they will inherit the land. Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness; for they shall be satisfied. Blessed are the merciful; for they shall obtain mercy. Blessed are the clean of heart; for they will see God. Blessed are the peacemakers; for they shall be called children of God. Blessed are those who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven

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CHRISTIAN DEVELOPMENT AND DEVOTION IN THE COMMUNITY OF FAITH 31. WHY IS MARY, THE MOTHER OF JESUS, A GOOD EXAMPLE OF HOW CHRISTIANS WOULD LIVE? She is a perfect example of a human being who gave herself over to whatever God asked of her. In doing this, the virtues of faith and love were especially strong in her life.

32. WHAT IS SIN? It is denial of God in our lives, a turning away from a loving God. 33. WHAT IS MORTAL SIN? It is a free and deliberate offense against God, of such a serious nature that it alienates us from God and other people. 34. WHAT IS VENIAL SIN? It is a less serious offense against God which weakens the relationship between God and us. 35. HOW DO WE KNOW WHAT IS RIGHT AND WRONG? We determine what is right and wrong by using our conscience. But we do not form a “correct” conscience alone. As Catholics we can learn from the wise teachings of our community about living a good moral life. Before we make any significant choices in life, we must examine our motives by listening to, weighing and praying over what is the best way to respond to God’s love in our lives. 36. WHAT IS PRAYER? Prayer is talking with and listening to God. It is reflecting on God’s actions in my life. ON CONFIRMATION SPECIFICALLY 37. WHY ARE BAPTISM, CONFIRMATION AND EUCHARIST CALLED SACRAMENTS OF INITIATION? Through Baptism we become members of the Body of Christ, the Church, and are called to live a specific way of life--the Gospel way of life. The beginning of this new way of life is symbolized by the immersion into or the pouring of water. Confirmation “seals in” the gift of the Holy Spirit received at Baptism, binding us more closely to the Church and to its mission to preach the Gospel. Eucharist is the sacred meal of our Catholic Christian family, where we come together and are nourished and strengthened by the Body and Blood of Christ in the bread and wine and in those gathered around us. 38. WHAT PROMISE DID JESUS MAKE TO THE APOSTLES BEFORE HE ASCENDED TO THE FATHER? Jesus said, “I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Paraclete, to be with you always: The Spirit of truth.” (John 14:16) He is the Spirit who reveals the truth about God. 39. WHEN WAS THE PROMISE THAT JESUS MADE TO THE APOSTLES FULFILLED? It was fulfilled at Pentecost, which we celebrate 50 days after Easter. We find this account in the Acts of the Apostles 2:1-4. 40. WHO MAY RECEIVE THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION? Confirmation may be conferred upon any baptized person. However, in the Western Church, it is most properly conferred when the person wants to enter more fully into the life of Christ, has been properly instructed, and is willing to take an active part in the life of the Church.

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41. WHO USUALLY CONFIRMS? The Bishop is the usual minister of Confirmation. The Bishop confirms to show that Confirmation is closely related to the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the Apostles. The Apostles were filled with the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Then through the laying on of hands, they prayed that the fullness of the Spirit would descend on the people who believed in Jesus. The Bishop, who is the pastor of the diocese, asks each of us to be witnesses of Christ among his people.

42. HOW IS THE SACRAMENT OF CONFIRMATION CONFERRED? The Sacrament of Confirmation is conferred through the laying on of hands and anointing with Chrism on the forehead and through the words, “Be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” After the Bishop says these words I will answer, “Amen.” The Bishop will then say to me, “Peace be with you.” I will answer, “And also with you.” 43. NAME THE GIFTS OF THE Holy Spirit.

The spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel (right judgment) and courage, the spirit of knowledge and reverence, and the spirit of love.

44. WHAT DOES CONFIRMATION CALL US TO BE? Confirmation calls us to be committed Christians. By that we mean we are to live the message of Jesus (the Gospel) in our everyday lives. The sacrament calls us to continue to pray, serve others, grow in knowledge of our faith, and celebrate with the People of God who gather together as Christ’s Church.

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STUDY SHEET FOR THE CONFIRMATION TEST

The Confirmation test will be one hundred questions (100 pts.). You must have a score of 70 in order to pass. Study the following terms and items, and review your textbook. They could all be on the test. Failure to pass this test means you will not be confirmed. TERMS TO KNOW: Parable Sacrament Mortal sin Venial sin Infallibility Euthanasia Sacred Chrism Catholic Baptism Confirmation Reconciliation Holy Eucharist Pope Bishop Priest Deacon Angels Devils Laying on of hands Liturgy of the Word Liturgy of the Eucharist Sacrilege Grace Sin Adultery Free will The People of God Trinity Pentecost Holy Spirit Old Testament New Testament Scripture and Tradition Blasphemy Conscience Prayer Gospel Heaven, Hell, Purgatory Annunciation Incarnation Redemption Immaculate Conception Transubstantiation

THINGS TO KNOW Ten Commandments The Beatitudes Seven Sacraments Seven Gifts of the Holy Spirit Three kinds of Grace Spiritual Works of Mercy Corporal Works of Mercy Theological Virtues Cardinal Virtues Sacraments of Initiation Sacraments of Healing Sacraments of Vocation the Greatest Commandment the Four Gospels the Acts of the Apostles the Four Evangelists the Twelve Apostles the Four marks of the Church the review questions from the Diocese PEOPLE TO KNOW Jesus Christ Mary Moses St. Peter St. Paul Matthew Mark Luke John PRAYERS TO KNOW: the Angelus the Hail Mary the Our Father the Apostles Creed the Act of Contrition

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EXTRA WORKSHEETS AND STUDY GUIDES

“Receive the Holy Spirit...Go out and Teach all nations...In The Name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.”

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THE ACTS OF APOSTLES Read the following passages from Acts of the Apostles and find things in them that tell what the Holy Spirit did to help the early Christians grow and reach out to others. Then list from each incident the verb or phrase that tells what the Holy Spirit did. 1. Acts 1:8_____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 2. Acts 2:4_____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 3. Acts 2:38____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 4. Acts 4:7-8____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 5. Acts 5:32____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 6. Acts 8:14-17__________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 7. Acts 13:2____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 8. Acts 13:4____________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 9. Acts 15:6-8__________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 10. Acts 20:28__________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________ 11. Acts 28:25-27________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________

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COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING: I. Spiritual Works of Mercy: 1. To admonish the ___________________________. 2. To instruct the _____________________________. 3. To counsel the ____________________________. 4. To comfort the _____________________________. 5. To bear wrongs ____________________________. 6. To ________________________________ all injuries. 7. To ____________________ for the living and the dead. II. Corporal Works of Mercy: 1. To feed the ________________________________. 2. To give drink to the _________________________. 3. To clothe __________________________________. 4. To visit the ________________________________. 5. To shelter the ______________________________. 6. To visit the ________________________________. 7. To bury the ________________________________.

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MATCH THE BEGINNING OF THE BEAUTITUDES WITH ITS CORRECT ENDING: __________ Blessed are the poor in spirit: A. they shall be satisfied. __________ Blessed are they who mourn: B. they shall be comforted. __________ Blessed are the meek: C. for they shall see God. __________ Blessed are they who hunger and thirst D. for they shall obtain mercy. for righteousness: __________ Blessed are the merciful: E. for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. __________ Blessed are the clean of heart: F. they shall be called children of God. __________ Blessed the peacemakers: G. they shall inherit the land. __________ Blessed are those persecuted for the sake of righteousness: *NOTE: ONE ANSWER IS USED TWICE. LIST THE SEVEN GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT: 1._________________________________ 5._________________________________ 2._________________________________ 6._________________________________ 3._________________________________ 7._________________________________ 4._________________________________

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Beatitude Crossword Puzzle.

From this list, choose the words that match the sentences and fit the spaces. satisfied holy worried work humble mercy persecution saints sons spirit sorrowing happiness God peacemakers share beatitudes proud sad martyrs WORDS ACROSS: 1. God’s friends in heaven. 2. the poor in spirit are ____________________ with what they have. 3. the lowly are not ____________________. 4. A word that means forgiveness. 5. The people who will be called God’s sons. 6. Another word for lowly. 7. Blessed are the poor in ________________. 8. God’s friends are sorry to see others in pain or ________________. 9. The ________________ shall be consoled. WORDS DOWN: 9. Those who make peace shall be called God’s __________________. 10. Another word for ‘beatitude.” 11. When they see people who do not seem to love God and others, God’s friends become __________________. 12. Some kind of suffering caused by others. 13. People who gave up their lives rather than give up Jesus. 14. “The reign of ________________is theirs.” 15. The poor in spirit are ready to _________________ with others. 16. Jesus chose to be poor and to _________________ hard. 17. What this lesson is all about 18. A word that describes people who live as Jesus did. .

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THE APOSTLE’S CREED

NUMBER THE FOLLOWING SO THEY ARE IN SEQUENCE FROM 1 THROUGH 20. ___________ Suffered under Pontius Pilate, ___________ Amen. ___________ He will come again to judge the living and the dead. ___________ I believe in God, the Father Almighty, ___________ The holy catholic Church, ___________ I believe in the Holy Spirit, ___________ was crucified, died, and was buried. ___________ And life everlasting. ___________ I believe in Jesus Christ, ___________ He descended to the dead. ___________ the communion of saints ___________ His only Son, our Lord, ___________ He ascended into heaven, ___________ On the third day He rose again. ___________ He was conceived by the Holy Spirit, ___________ and born of the Virgin Mary. ___________ the forgiveness of sins, ___________ and is seated at the right hand of the Father. ___________ the resurrection of the body, ___________ Creator of heaven and earth. LIST THE SEVEN SACRAMENTS: 1. _____________________________ 5. ________________________________ 2. _____________________________ 6. ________________________________ 3. _____________________________ 7. ________________________________ 4. _____________________________

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FILL IN THE BLANKS

THE APOSTLE’S CREED I believe in ___________, the _______________ Almighty, __________________, of heaven and earth, and in _______________ ______________, His only Son, our Lord. He was _________________ by the ______________ of the ______________ _____________, and born of the Virgin. _______________, suffered under ________________ _____________, was _____________, _____________, and was ____________. He ______________ to the dead. On the third day He ____________ again. He __________________, into ____________ and is seated at the right _____________of the Father. He will come again to ______________ the living and the dead. I believe in the ______________ ______________, the holy _______________ Church, the __________________ of saints, the ____________________ of sins, the ___________________of the body and _____________ everlasting. Amen.

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The following pages are a journal section designed just for you. You will be given questions to answer or statements to think about. Use this space to explore your thoughts and feelings as you go through this program. Your teacher may ask you to do this during class time or they may assign it for homework. There are no right or wrong answers, just your personal thoughts.

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Preparing for Confirmation is a choice for God Write down three common complaints high school students might have about going through a Confirmation preparation program. Then write down three reasons why this process might be a good and necessary experience. If you’d like to, you can compare and discuss your answers with others in class. Against For 1. 1. 2. 2. 3. 3. Think about this: Here are three reasons why I want to prepare for Confirmation at this time in my life: (think of why this is important to you and perhaps to your family) Here is what I hope to get out of this time of preparation and initiation: (what are your goals, hopes or expectations) Here are some ways I will “prove” to my peers and to others that my intentions are sincere: (are you going through the program with an open mind and heart, or are you just taking up desk space?)

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Confirmation is a public celebration

Confirmation is a public celebration of your identity as a Christian. It not only celebrates how you have already lived as a Christian, it also celebrates your present life as a follower of Jesus. Furthermore, Confirmation celebrates your future involvement as member of the Catholic Christian community. Before you can understand the meaning of Confirmation, it is important to have a sense of your Christian identity. You can get a sense of this identity by answering the following questions. My past: What is one way that I have developed a personal relationship with Jesus in my younger years? What is one way that the teachings of Jesus have influenced the way I have related to family members or friends? What is one way that I have participated in the Sacramental life of my parish? What is one way I have been involved in Christian service to the community?

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My Present: How am I presently relating to Jesus? What is one way that the teachings of Jesus affect my moral decisions or behaviors? What is one way I am presently participating in Mass and the Sacraments? What is one way I am currently involved in Christian service to the community? You shall love the Lord your God with your whole heart, with your whole soul, and with all your mind. Matthew 23:37

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My FUTURE: What is one way I plan to grow in my relationship with Jesus? What is one way that I can try to relate morally to others, based on the teachings of Jesus? What is one way I will participate more fully in the Mass and Sacraments? What is one way I will help other Christians serve the community or work for justice? Spend some time reflecting on your answers. What do they tell you about your Christian identity?

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I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Philippians 4:13

God in my l ife God is the source of every blessing. Life, love, everything that is good is ultimately a gift because God, out of love, chose to create and save us. Our life is filled with the love of God. Through this love of God we come to the truth of our own lives. God’s love is the origin and end of our happiness. Think about this: When have you felt closest to God? What image of God do you have in your heart of hearts? Is it easiest to feel close to God in times of happiness or in times of sadness? From where do you hear God’s voice when He speaks to you, from inside of yourself or from others? In what other ways can you hear God’s voice?

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Jesus loved God and loved others As Christians, we believe that Jesus is the Savior or Messiah that God promised to send. Jesus mission was to reunite us struggling, confused, and sinful human beings with God and to enable us to help him bring about God’s reign of peace, love, justice and happiness. Jesus message of Good News was simple: Love God who is your all-caring, all-forgiving Father and treat each other with the same love and respect that God gives you. Jesus confirmed this message with his actions. He was totally devoted to God. He showed love and respect for every person he met.

SCRIPTURE SEARCH In the Gospels, find an example of Jesus’ total devotion to God. In the Gospels, find an example of the respect and practical concern Jesus had for every person he met. Think about this: On a scale of 1 to 10 (with 10 being the highest) how much do I believe God cares for me? Why? On a scale of 1 to 10, how much do I believe it is possible to show love and respect toward everyone? Why? On a scale from 1 to 10, how important is it for people to match their beliefs with their actions? Why?

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The Holy Spirit helps you pray Since your Baptism, the Holy Spirit has been with you helping you to pray. The Holy Spirit has not only helped you say what is in your heart, the Spirit has also helped you listen to what Jesus is saying to you. Prayer is a way of communicating with God. Prayer helps us draw strength from God in our time of need and is a way of speaking with Him every day. Think about this: Take a moment and think about your personal prayer style: How do you pray best? Where? Do you use a regular prayer routine? Do you use formal prayer or is your prayer spontaneous? Answer this: What are some of the ways I pray? When during a typical week, do I tend to pray? What do I usually ask God for when I pray? How do I know if God has answered my prayer? Try This:

• This week pray for someone that you don’t really like or get along with. • Think of one new way of praying and try it for the next week. • Go to church, (not during regular Mass time), light a candle and say a prayer for someone.

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The Spirit in you Confirmation celebrates the same Pentecost experience of Jesus’ first disciples: the indwelling of the Holy Spirit. Since your baptism, the Spirit has been with you. As you approach your Confirmation you will receive the fullness of that same Spirit which will come alive even more, filling you with many gifts from God. As a disciple of Christ, your challenge will be to become more aware of how the Holy Spirit can work within you and help you to grow in God’s love. Think about this: What are some ways that I can recognize the action of the Holy Spirit in my life? What are some of the gifts (talents) that I have already received from the Holy Spirit? What are some ways that I can share these gifts with others? What are some other signs of God’s presence with us through the Holy Spirit? Are you not aware that you are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? 1 Cor 3:16

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At Baptism, you joined the Church community When you were baptized, you were washed in blessed water and anointed with holy chrism. You were given a new identity and brought to new life through Baptism and the Holy Spirit. You officially became a disciple of Jesus and a member of the Church. At your Confirmation, the Church will celebrate and recognize in a public way the Christian identity that began in you at Baptism. It’s important to realize that you don’t need to be a saint to be confirmed. It’s also important to know that being confirmed won’t automatically make you a saint. But confirmation can help you deepen your relationship with Jesus. It can also help you deepen your relationship with the rest of the community of disciples. And most important, it can empower you to use your God-given gifts and skills to do what all disciples of Jesus are ultimately asked to do: Share the good news with others. Think about this: Do I let others know, on a daily basis, that I am a disciple of Jesus? Why or Why not? What are some ways that I can grow in my identity as a disciple of Jesus? Who are some people in my life who are not afraid to live their lives as a disciple of Jesus? Try this

• This week say, “Hi!” to someone you wouldn’t normally say, “Hi!” to. • Smile at everyone you meet. • Do a random act of kindness for someone who would least expect it.

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Ways to grow in discipleship Let’s say you’re at a point in your life when you have every intention of growing firmer in your commitment to Jesus and His Church. But you’re not quite sure where to go from here. Well, here’s some simple advice: Keep on doing what you’ve always been doing to get to Jesus and then make a conscious choice to do these things even better! Most likely, you’ve already been developing your relationship with Jesus in four ways: in the Sacraments (especially in the Eucharist), in scripture, in prayer and in your relationship with other people. Think about this: How has the Sacrament of Reconciliation brought you closer to Jesus and the Church? How can I make this Sacrament a more meaningful part of my future? How has the Sacrament of the Eucharist brought me closer to Jesus and the Church? How can I make this Sacrament a more meaningful part of my future?

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How have I grown closer to Jesus through reading and reflecting on Scripture (especially the Gospels)? What are some steps I can take to include this in my life every day? How have I grown closer to Jesus through my personal prayer? How can personal prayer be a meaningful part of my future? Whenever you pray, go to your room, close your door, and pray to your Father in private. Then your Father, who sees what no man sees, will repay you. Matthew 6:6