Diocese of Reno
Office of the Bishop
290 S. Arlington Avenue
Reno, Nevada 89501-1713
(775) 329-9274 • FAX (775) 348-8619
August, 2007
Dear Friends in Christ,
As we begin a new academic year, I want to inform you that the policies set forth by my predecessor, Bishop Straling, concerning the Sacrament of Confirmation will continue. That is to say, preparation for Confirmation is to be a parish-oriented and parish-directed program which includes catechesis, parent-sponsor education and involvement.
The Confirmation candidate ordinarily begins their two year period of formation in Catholic faith/Doctrine during their freshman year of high school. The formation program is to include teachings on the Creed, Morality, Sacramental Life and Prayer of the Church. Participation in the worship life of the Church, especially through regular attendance at Sunday Mass and a weekend spiritual retreat are essential components of this preparation. This, coupled with active participation in the life of the community through service projects, will enable the candidate to be ready for the Sacrament of Confirmation in their sophomore year.
A special sensitivity to those students attending Catholic schools is called for in the preparation program. At the same time, while it may be assumed that students in our Catholic High School and those who are home schooled are receiving a good background of basic knowledge, it must be emphasized that preparation for Confirmation involves more than just knowledge of faith and morals. Consequently these students are required to be involved in the parish Confirmation program on a regular basis, during the year immediate to the reception of the Sacrament. The curriculum of Catholic High School religion classes may be accepted in place of the first year of Confirmation preparation. Please contact your own parish for specific parish policy.
Keeping in mind the prescribed age for Confirmation, due respect and latitude must be given to the variety of pastoral situations and needs found in the different parts of the Diocese. (More specific details can be found in the “Guidelines for the Sacrament of Confirmation” www.catholicreno.org) Please contact your own parish for specific parish policy on the Sacraments, especially Confirmation.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
Most Reverend Randolph R. Calvo
Bishop of Reno