Youth Confirmation

Youth Confirmation is a time of formation, discernment, and growth in faith as students prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. These resources are designed to help students understand what the Church teaches, why it teaches it, and how faith connects to their everyday lives.

The lessons adapt Catholic foundational teachings for adolescents, using Scripture, short videos, discussion, and reflection to encourage ownership of faith rather than passive participation.

Parents and sponsors may find additional guidance on the “For Parents & Sponsors” page.

Who These Resources Are For

• Students in grades 8 and above preparing for Confirmation

• Parish youth Confirmation programs

• Catechists and youth ministers

• Parents supporting their child’s faith journey

How Youth Confirmation Lessons Are Structured

Youth Confirmation lessons are adapted from adult Catholic Foundations and OCIA materials, with language, pacing, and discussion questions tailored for adolescents. While the core teachings of the Church remain the same, lessons place special emphasis on:

• Personal identity and decision-making

• Peer pressure and cultural influences

• Developing a prayer life

• Understanding Confirmation as a call to discipleship, not graduation

These sessions are designed to invite honest questions and reflection while remaining faithful to Church teaching.

Youth Confirmation Formation Areas

Catholic Foundations

Introduces what Catholics believe and why, including the story of salvation, core doctrines, and the role of the Church.

Jesus Christ and Scripture

Focuses on who Jesus is, how Catholics read the Bible, and why Scripture matters in daily life.

The Sacraments

Explores the meaning of the sacraments with special emphasis on Confirmation and the Eucharist as encounters with Christ.

Prayer and Spiritual Life

Introduces different forms of prayer and helps students develop habits of prayer beyond the classroom.

Living the Faith

Connects Catholic teaching to real-life choices, moral responsibility, service, and life as a disciple in today’s world.

Sample Youth Confirmation Session

The following example shows how a typical Youth Confirmation session might be structured using these resources.

Sample Session: What Is Catholic?

Purpose:
To help students understand what it means to be Catholic and why the Church matters in their lives.

Typical length: 60–75 minutes
Recommended age: Grades 8+

Session Flow

1. Opening Prayer (5 minutes)
Invite students to quiet themselves and become aware of God’s presence.

2. Scripture Reflection (10 minutes)
Read a short Gospel passage and invite students to share initial reactions.

3. Video Teaching (30 minutes)
Watch short videos introducing Catholic belief and identity. Guided discussion after each video.

4. Small-Group Discussion (10 minutes)
Use age-appropriate questions that connect faith to school, friendships, and daily choices.

5. Closing Prayer or Reflection (5 minutes)
Invite students to reflect silently or offer intentions.

Youth Confirmation formation is most effective when supported by parish leadership, catechists, parents, and sponsors. These resources are intended to support that shared responsibility.

👉 Download Religious Education Schedule Template (PDF)