Confirmation Test/Interview

[Bashful]

I was wondering because I have heard that in order for a catholic person to receive the sacrament of confirmation, during their confirmation class, they must pass an exam over the doctrine of the Catholic Church or pass an interview as one of the conditions of receiving the sacrament of confirmation. I know there are some people including me who have a very hard time with interviews (I’m diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and does poorly in interviews.) and have test anxiety and lots of times like me some people need extended time on tests due to a condition (example: Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, etc). What does happen if a confirmation candidate fails the exam or fails the interview or even fails the entire class? (given the test is not open book)

 

[Trishie]

From the Catechism of the Catholic Church

1. • 1. • Qualifications for reception.

a) One who has not received the sacrament of Baptism cannot be validly confirmed;
moreover, for the Confirmation to be lawful and fruitful, the recipient must be in the
state of grace, and, if he has reached the use of reason, sufficiently instructed.45 An
implicit habitual intention suffices for adults. The sacrament revives when an obstacle
of serious sin impeding its effect is removed.

b) Those to be confirmed should first be properly instructed in the nature, dignity and
effects of this sacrament, and the dispositions necessary to receive it worthily.43 Those **
who due to age or lack of intelligence cannot remember or follow the instruction may
still be confirmed**. Heretics and schismatics may not be confirmed unless they have
abjured their errors and been reconciled to the Church.

The comments regarding those with memory retention difficulties as mentioned above may apply to illness as well. Could you explain your problem to your priest and ask his advice and whether a test is required.

 

[Br.Rich_SFO]

I was wondering because I have heard that in order for a catholic person to receive the sacrament of confirmation, during their confirmation class, they must pass an exam over the doctrine of the Catholic Church or pass an interview as one of the conditions of receiving the sacrament of confirmation. I know there are some people including me who have a very hard time with interviews (I’m diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and does poorly in interviews.) and have test anxiety and lots of times like me some people need extended time on tests due to a condition (example: Autism, Asperger’s Syndrome, Dyslexia, etc). What does happen if a confirmation candidate fails the exam or fails the interview or even fails the entire class? (given the test is not open book)

Since the parents are their primary teachers they will be advised what areas need extra help and attention. Parents know their children better than anyone else when it come to the study and learning habits. When the parent and child feel they are ready again the interview or test will again be conducted I’m sure and if necessary again and again. The Church will do everything to assist the parents and child so the child will be Confirmed.