The Confirmation program consists of two years of preparation, generally in the 7th and 8th grades. The Candidates receive the sacrament in the fall after completing this preparation. Retreats, service opportunities, and catechetical development are provided by the Confirmation staff with the help of adult mentors. Public School students meet with their mentors for study and service; St. Mary’s School students receive religious instruction during the school day and perform service projects.

Recognizing the importance of parents in the faith development of their children, parents are asked to attend sessions with their adolescent once a month in the Church. Our goal is to support and inform parents so they are prepared to pass on the faith and answer their children’s questions.

Along with the commitment to attend these monthly sessions, each family is asked to read and reflect on the Mass Readings of the day, perform four family service projects each year, and attend weekly Mass.

For more information about the program, or to volunteer to share your faith as a mentor, please call Anna Taylor (ataylor@smip.org) at the Confirmation office, 815.436.2861, Ext. 877 or click here.