Confirmation Candidates | 2026–2027
“Be sealed with the Gift of the Holy Spirit.”
This page provides important information, requirements, deadlines, and online submission forms for students preparing to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation during the 2026–2027 sacramental year at Blessed Sacrament Parish and St. Patrick Parish.
Confirmation Requirements
As part of their preparation, all Confirmation candidates are required to choose a Confirmation saint, select a qualified sponsor, complete Christian service hours, and participate in the required preparation events.
1. Confirmation Saint Name
Each candidate is asked to choose a saint whose life and example inspire them to grow closer to Christ. Candidates should research their chosen saint and reflect on how that saint can serve as a model for living their Catholic faith.
Confirmation Saint Name • Online Form
Submission Deadline: December 20, 2026
2. Confirmation Sponsor
A Confirmation sponsor is someone who will support the candidate on their journey of faith, encourage their continued growth as a Catholic, and serve as an example of Christian discipleship.
Two requirements must be completed:
Step 1: Candidate Sponsor Reflection
Each candidate must complete the online form explaining whom they have chosen as their sponsor and why they selected that person.
Why I Chose My Sponsor • Online Form
Step 2: Sponsor Eligibility Paperwork
Each sponsor must complete the required Sponsor Eligibility Form and obtain their pastor's signature. The completed and signed paperwork must be returned to the Religious Education Office.
Copies of the sponsor’s Baptismal and Confirmation records are also required and may be submitted with this form or mailed directly to the Office of Religious Education by the parish where the Sacraments were received.
Download Sponsor Verification Form
Deadline for Both Requirements: February 7, 2027
3. Christian Service Hours
As part of their preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation, candidates are required to complete 20 hours of Christian service.
Christian service encourages candidates to put their faith into action by helping others, serving their communities, and sharing Christ's love through acts of kindness and generosity.
Submitting Your Service Hours
Students may submit their service hours throughout the year as they complete them. There is no need to wait until all 20 hours have been completed.
After completing a service activity, students should use the online form below to record their hours. A separate submission may be completed for each service activity.
Submit Christian Service Hours
Final Submission Deadline: March 21, 2027
Important Dates & Events
In addition to regular Religious Education classes, Confirmation candidates are expected to participate in the required preparation events throughout the sacramental year. Please review the Confirmation Events & Requirements Schedule for important dates, deadlines, locations, and arrival instructions.
View Confirmation Events & Requirements Schedule
Sacrament of Confirmation
Friday, April 30, 2027
6:00 PM
Blessed Sacrament Church
1945 Northampton Street, Holyoke, MA
The Sacrament of Confirmation will be celebrated with Bishop William D. Byrne and candidates from the Holyoke Deanery.
Arrival Information:
- 5:00 PM – Candidates check in at the Parish Center.
- 5:30 PM – Sponsors are seated in the church.
- 6:00 PM – Confirmation Mass begins.
Questions or Additional Information?
If you have questions about Confirmation preparation, paperwork, service hours, or upcoming events, please contact the Religious Education Office.
Ms. Kelly O'Connor
Director of Religious Education
Office: (413) 532-0713, ext. 118 • Monday–Friday | Regular Office Hours
Religious Education Cell: (413) 213-6624 • For use during Religious Education classes and programs
Email: oconnork@blessedsacramentholyoke.org