COMPLETING THE LITURGY PLANNING FORM

1. In many instances, it will take the collaborative work of the pastor, the Director of Religious Education, the Confirmation Coordinator and the Music Director to plan this special liturgy. Make this portion of the planning a priority. Good liturgy will be the key of a successful celebration.
2. The use of incense is not encouraged.
3. The praying of the Gloria can be omitted due to the length of the Confirmation liturgy.
4. On the form, please designate the person who will be the main contact for the Office of Worship.
5. Follow the guidelines below. When in doubt or in need of extra guidance, call the Worship Office at 504-861-6300. One of our team members will be more than happy to assist you.
6. It's important that the finished Planning Form and Prayers of the Faithful be submitted TWO WEEKS prior to the event. This will assist the Arch/Bishop in his preparation.
   

SELECTING SCRIPTURE

1. It's a good practice to first look at the suggested Readings for Confirmation found in the Rite Book.
2. If Confirmation is being celebrated on a Sunday, outside of the Advent/Christmas; Lent/Easter seasons and not on a Feast or Solemnity of the church, then you may select different readings that reference the working of the Holy Spirit. If Confirmation is being celebrated on Sunday during one of the above seasons, then use the prescribed readings of the church found in the Lectionary.
3. You must provide a copy of the Readings and Prayers of the Faithful with the Liturgy Form.
   

SELECTING MUSIC

1. The Catholic Church has a rich history of sacred music. All music that is selected must come from a Catholic Hymnal.
2. Remember when selecting music you want to choose pieces that are familiar and easy to sing so that the assembly can actively participate in song.
3. Know which liturgical season your event takes place. Advent and Lenten music have a much more somber tone than does Christmas or Easter time.
4. Softly sung music or instrumental is best for the Rite of Anointing.
5. The Gospel Acclamation is usually a sung Alleluia. However, during the Lenten season, the Alleluia is omitted and an appropriate acclamation is sung.
   

PREPARING THE MINISTERS

1. When everyone knows what their specific role is in the liturgy, the prayer will flow beautifully. Make certain that the Servers, Deacons, Lectors, Hospitality Ministers and Extraordinary Ministers are made aware of their responsibilities.
2.  If possible, bring them together for a rehearsal so that they can actually see the movement of the liturgy.
3. The Office of Worship will schedule an MC for the Confirmation Mass. The role of the MC is to work with you and the ministers to ensure a well celebrated liturgy.
   

WRITING THE PRAYERS OF THE FAITHFUL

1. In writing the Prayers of the Faithful, keep in mind this simple formula:
    - Prayers for the Church
    - Prayers for the Nations and its leaders
    - Prayers for the marginalized
    - Prayers for the local community (i.e. prayers for the good works of a particular ministry)  Remember to keep these prayers general rather than specific and individualized.
2. If you do not want to write your own Prayers of the Faithful for a Confirmation Mass can be readily found in the Rite Book.
3. You do not need to provide an Opening and Closing Prayer to the Petitions.
   

Click here for an offline copy of the following form.