Guidelines, Letters to Bishop

Writing a letter to the Bishop is a practice that is required for several reasons.  Primarily, it encourages the candidates to reflect on why it is that they want to receive the sacrament.  By articulating the reasons for wanting to receive the sacrament, candidates can gain a deeper understanding of their own faith life and can develop a greater sense of ownership/participation in what is about to take place.  The Bishop also enjoys this practice and gains valuable insight into the personalities and thought-processes of the candidates.  This adds a sense of familiarity to the celebration of the sacrament thereby contributing to a feeling of communion. 

Letters to the Bishop should reflect the individual character and style of each candidate.  While honoring the letters as unique expressions, the following three topics should be worked into the letter’s body:

     1. Biographical Information – The candidate should introduce themselves to the Bishop.  Who are they? How old are they? What grade are they in? What parish do they belong to? How big is their family?  What are some of their favorite things?
     2. Description of Preparation – the candidate needs to communicate to the Bishop how he or she has prepared for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation.
     3. Personal Meaning – The candidate should reflect on what the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation means to them. 
     4. If the candidate is going to choose a Confirmation name, the letter should also indicate the choice of name and the reason for this choice. 

Things to avoid:

 Illegibility – The letters should be typed.  In the event that the letters are handwritten, parents or catechists should check them for legibility.  A letter that cannot be read is of no real value in establishing a relationship between the candidate and the Bishop.  The parent or catechist does not have to read the letter, but a quick glance will reveal its legibility. 

Thoughts of EARNING Confirmation – Confirmation is a gift freely given by God out of love.  We do not earn Confirmation through service hours or attendance or class work.  We are not capable of doing anything to merit such an expression of Divine Love.

 Pleading for the Sacrament – Candidates should be encouraged to reflect on what the sacrament means to them and their life rather than viewing the letter as a “plea” for the sacrament.  They do not need to convince the Bishop to confer the sacrament