8th Grade Confirmation Preparation
Forming Intentional Disciples, Strengthened by the Sacraments
At St. David the King, Confirmation preparation is fully integrated into our Summer Intensive Faith Formation model, accompanied by Family Catechesis events throughout the academic year. This structure is designed to deepen each young person’s relationship with Christ and the Church, while equipping parents to walk with their child on this important journey of discipleship.
Our 8th Grade Confirmation program uses Purpose, an interactive curriculum from Life Teen, which guides students through dynamic sessions centered on three foundational questions of faith:
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Why believe in God?
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Why trust Jesus?
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Why be a part of the Church?
This approach is not just informational—it’s transformational. Purpose leads teens to encounter Christ, engage in meaningful discussion, and understand their role in the mission of the Church.
What to Expect
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Two-Year Requirement: In accordance with the Diocese of Trenton, two consecutive years of faith formation are required prior to receiving the Sacrament of Confirmation. Therefore, completion of 7th Grade Faith Formation is required before registering for 8th Grade Confirmation.
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Summer Intensive: Core Confirmation catechesis is delivered in a weeklong Summer Intensive, blending interactive learning with sacramental focus.
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Family Catechesis Events: Year-round gatherings aligned with the liturgical calendar provide formation, fellowship, and support for families.
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Retreat: A required 8th-grade retreat offers space for prayer, discernment, and community building.
- Confirmation-Specific Sessions: In the weeks leading up to the sacrament, candidates will attend three mandatory preparation sessions focused on the meaning, responsibilities, and graces of Confirmation.
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Service: Candidates are expected to complete 15 hours of meaningful Christian service as part of their preparation. To help them get off to a strong start, 5 of these hours are built into the Summer Intensive schedule through guided service opportunities.
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Sunday Mass: Participation in Sunday Mass is essential and expected—this is where our faith is nourished and deepened.
Important for Eastern Rite Catholics
If your child was baptized in an Eastern Catholic Church (e.g., Syro-Malabar, Ukrainian, Byzantine), please verify whether Confirmation was conferred at baptism, as is customary in many Eastern traditions.
Even if your child has already received the sacrament, they are welcome to participate in the full formation experience. While they will not be re-confirmed, this journey offers a valuable opportunity to grow in knowledge, spiritual maturity, and active participation in the Church’s mission.
If you have any questions about the Confirmation process or about eligibility, please contact our parish faith formation team. We’re here to help your family thrive in the faith and walk with your child toward full maturity in Christ.
IMPORTANT DATES TO KNOW:
Confirmation Retreat
Date: Sunday, September 28, 2025
Time: 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. (includes 7:00 p.m. Mass)
Location: Church of St. David the King
This retreat is required for all students who completed 8th Grade during the 2024–2025 school year, as well as for current 8th Grade students preparing for Confirmation.
Confirmation-Specific Sessions Dates:
Dates: Sunday, October 12 and 26, 2025
Time: 5:00 – 8:00 p.m. (includes 7:00 p.m. Mass)
Location: Church of St. David the King
Confirmation Practice
Date: Wednesday, November 5, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Church of St. David the King
All Confirmation candidates and their sponsors are expected to attend.
Confirmation Ceremony
Date: Friday, November 7, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.
Location: Church of St. David the King
Celebrant: Rev. Msgr. Thomas J. Mullelly
This celebration is for students who completed 8th Grade during the 2024–2025 school year or are currently enrolled in 8th Grade and have fulfilled the necessary preparation requirements.