Confirmation Names

[Debra Little]

Why aren't new Catholics given Confirmation names anymore? I came into the
Church in 1987 and they weren't doing it then.

Edited February 26, 2011 by Debra Little

[Cherie]

The tradition of selecting a Saint’s name as one’s Confirmation name stems from the biblical tradition of changing one's name to indicate a new or renewed commitment to God (Abram became Abraham, Sarai became Sarah, etc.) Confirmation candidates were encouraged to take on the name and characteristics of a Saint of their choosing. St. Rose of Lima, if I remember correctly, was baptized "Isabel" and took the name of "Rose" at her Confirmation, and thereafter was known as Rose.

The Second Vatican Council called for the revision of the ritual of Confirmation, which was completed in 1971. The revision does not call for the candidate to choose another name, nor is it mentioned in the revised Code of Canon Law. As a result, the Church encourages candidates to affirm their baptismal name, since the sacrament of Confirmation is seen as the "completion" of Baptism. There is a strong link between Baptism and Confirmation; for this reason the Code of Canon Law § 893 states that it is "desirable" (although not required) that the same person who was the godparent in Baptism be the sponsor in Confirmation.

However, the practice of choosing a Confirmation Saint is particularly helpful for those who do not have a Saint's name for their baptismal name. Either way, it is a beautiful practice, but not one that is required. It seems to depend on the parish and/or diocese as to whether or not their Confirmandi take on a Saint's name for Confirmation.