Practicing Catholics who were never confirmed to receive sacrament at basilica September 21, 2022By George P. Matysek Jr. Catholic Review Filed Under: Feature, Local News, News Archbishop William E. Lori will administer the sacrament of confirmation Oct. 23 to approximately 50 baptized, practicing Catholics who have never received the sacrament. The liturgy – to be held at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore at 3 p.m. – will be celebrated in English and Spanish and will include community representatives from the parishes sending confirmation candidates. Those undergoing the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults who need to be confirmed should receive the sacrament at their parish’s Easter Vigil Mass, according to Julie Grace Males, director of the archdiocesan Office of Divine Worship. The group confirmation at the basilica is specifically for those baptized, practicing Catholics who have “fallen through the cracks for some reason,” she said. Youths who have completed confirmation formation at their parishes but who were unable to attend their parish celebrations will also be confirmed at the basilica, Males said, as will a few individuals from smaller parishes that did not hold confirmation liturgies. Those participating in the group confirmation are asked to register through their parish. “We hope this will create an opportunity for parish staff and community to develop a relationship with those who are completing their sacraments of initiation during the process of registration and catechesis,” she said. “We’re hoping that this will increase the likelihood of the newly confirmed becoming active in their parish.” Archbishop Lori will also celebrate a group confirmation on Pentecost at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen in Homeland. Email George P. Matysek Jr. at gmatysek@CatholicReview.org Read More Local News Radio Interview: Discovering Our Lady’s Center Archbishop Curley’s 1975 soccer squad defied the odds – and Cold War barriers Faith and nature shape young explorers at Monsignor O’Dwyer Retreat House Artist helps transform blight to beauty throughout Baltimore area Radio Interview: Advent and St. Nicholas Archbishop Lori announces clergy appointments, including pastor assignment and retirement Copyright © 2022 Catholic Review Media Print
