BRIDGEPORT— On November 13, 2021, The Institute for Catholic Formation will be hosting a workshop for those adults (18 and over) who are practicing Catholics who lack only Confirmation (i.e., they have received Baptism and First Holy Communion). This workshop will serve as immediate preparation for the sacrament and those who participate will be permitted to join Bishop Caggiano at one of his upcoming celebrations of Confirmation. Another opportunity will be provided in the spring in advance of Pentecost Sunday.
“We will begin by discussing the paperwork necessary and assist participants in requesting Baptismal certificates and making the appropriate connections with parish leaders,” explains Dr. Patrick Donovan, director of The Institute for Catholic Formation. “The rest of the day will focus on an overview of the sacrament, a discussion on the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and suggestions for being missionary disciples once they are confirmed.”
“Many times, pastors and faith formation leaders are faced with someone who wishes to be a sponsor, has been asked to be a Godparent, or is preparing for marriage only to discover that the individual lacks Confirmation,” says Donovan. “Even though he/she goes to Mass every Sunday, being Confirmed in their faith did not happen. The reasons are many, but what matters now is finding a solution.”
In September, Bishop Frank J. Caggiano announced plans to rename The Leadership Institute as The Institute for Catholic Formation, effective September 19, 2021.
“This change celebrates the growth of the original ideas on which The Leadership Institute was founded,” the bishop said. “Namely, the establishment of a school without a wall that would encourage parish ministry leaders to participate in life-long formation. Since its inception, the Institute has become much more than that. This name recognizes that accomplishment and more clearly defines the role of the Institute.”
In addition, the name change will help the faithful understand the role of the Institute in their own faith development. “Catholic formation” is a more appropriate title for all that the Institute accomplishes.
(Registration is open and there is no cost. Please visit this link to learn more and to register: www.formationreimagined.org/event/adult-confirmation-fall2021)
