Solemn confirmation in St. Egyden: Over 50 young people seal their faith!

Solemn confirmation in St. Egyden: Over 50 young people seal their faith!

On the last Sunday in May 2025, a solemn event was celebrated in St. Egyden: the confirmation of more than 50 firmlings from all over Carinthia. This significant religious ceremony, which is an initiation sacrament in addition to baptism and first communion, deepens the connection between the young people to their faith and community of the church. The local pastor Mag. Johann Kristof and the parish council had organized the celebration and thus enabled the firmlings to take this important step in their life. The reception of the firmlings was accompanied by Vice Mayor Markus Fantur, Mayor Thomas Wuksch as well as fire brigade commander Thomas Ojster and the parish councilor Maria Happe-Schütz, who praised the strong village community and the lively cooperation.

Bishop Josef Marketz, who ceremoniously carried out the confirmation, was warmly welcomed to the event. The Men's Singing Association St. Egyden under the direction of chairman Martin Satlow took over the musical design of the service. The atmosphere of the celebration was characterized by warmth and showed the close cooperation between the church, community and clubs.

The importance of confirmation

Confirmation not only intensifies the relationship between the young people to the Holy Spirit, but also brings them to a deeper community with the church. During the ritual act, the firmlings are commissioned to publicly report on their faith. The firmritus itself includes the anointing with Chrisam, while the bishop bless the firmling with the words "be sealed by the gift of God, the Holy Spirit". This confirms the decision made and the responsibility associated with faith.

In Germany, confirmation is usually carried out between the ages of 14 and 16, but there is the possibility to operate from the age of seventh. The preparation for this important celebration is in groups and is led by full-time and volunteers, whereby the parents are not forced to actively participate in the preparation. However, you can offer support.

The preparation time can be a valuable opportunity for many young people to deal with their belief more intensively. In many communities, the parents are automatically informed as soon as their child reaches the corresponding age. This practice ensures that the transition to the next phase of the faith community is supported by the church.

The celebrations of confirmation are therefore not only a religious event, but also a sign of community and coexistence, as they were impressively demonstrated in St. Egyden. The day was a worthy and connecting experience for both the firmlings as well as for their families and the entire community.