Jesus appeared to the disciples at some point between Easter and Pentecost, he said to them: 'Peace be with you' and 'Do not be afraid' but he also criticised them for their lack of faith. In Luke says that Jesus told them that 'I myself will send upon you what my Father has promised. But you must wait in the city until the power from above comes down upon you.' (Luke 24:49)

The Holy Spirit was them send to the Apostles at Pentecost and it empowered them with the strength for the mission that God had for them.

Conformation is the final ceremony of initiation into the Church when they receive the strength and courage to be a witness for Christ in the world.

The Holy Spirit is initially given at baptism and now a Christian is old enough they can renew the baptismal promises that were made on their behalf: rejecting evil; believing in God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit; the forgiveness of sins; resurrection of the body and life everlasting.

The sacrament normally takes place during a Mass and a bishop will usually confirm the candidates.

1. Presentation of the candidate

2. Renewal of baptismal promises - this is a restatement of the profession of faith made at baptism.

3. Laying on of hands - this gesture dates back to Old Testament times and is symbolically calling down the power of God on a person. From the earliest times in the church bishops have done this to confirm people.

4. Anointing with Chrism - the candidate kneels before the bishop, their name and the confirmation name is read out. The sponsor places their hand on the shoulder of the candidate and the bishop then lays his hand on the candidates head and anoints with the oil of chrism, a sign on the forehead with the words:'(Name) be sealed with the gift of the Holy Spirit.' The response is 'Amen'. The bishop then says 'Peace be with you' and the candidate replies 'And also with you'.

The Mass then continues with the liturgy of the Eucharist.