Msg Base:  AREA 5  - ASK FATHER            CIN ECHO   AMDG
  Msg No: 212.  Fri 12-13-91 16:27  (NO KILL)  (MAILED)
    From: Father Mateo
      To: Joe Kelly
 Subject: Confirmation

+-
| I have a college-age friend who has recently informed me that although
| he was baptized in his local (catholic) church, he was never confirmed.
| I originally told him that this was no problem as to the best of my k
| nowledge, confirmation is not considered essential for salvation.
| Since, this conversation, he has now told me that at the time he
| was offered confirmation (around age 15) he refused to accept the sacr
| ament.
| Now, I think we have a problem.
| 1. Is it a serious matter to deny the sacrament of confirmation
| when validly offered?
| He has confided to me that he wishes to be confirmed, and has
| asked me to be his sponsor.  He is (I think) a practicing Catholic
| and observes the church's teachings as far as I can Tell.
| 2. Does he have to go through RCIA to be confirmed?
| What will be the procedure in this instance?
| Thank You
 
Dear Joe,
 
You and your friend who wishes to be confirmed should visit his parish
priest.  If he is a university student, he may visit the Newman Club
chaplain or campus ministry office.  They will explain what preparation
he needs to make to receive the sacrament.
 
                                Sincerely in Christ,
 
                                Father Mateo