Columbus Diocese Lowers Confirmation Age
Columbus, Ohio – Bishop Earl Fernandes has announced that the Diocese of Columbus will officially lower the age for the Catholic sacrament of confirmation to students in the fourth grade—typically 9 to 10 years old. The new initiative will begin in fall 2025, with full implementation across all parishes and schools by 2029.
This significant change comes after years of study, discussion, and input from pastors, religious educators, and Catholic school staff. The goal is to provide children with spiritual support and strengthen their Catholic identity amid increasing societal challenges.
“We are witnessing a generation facing challenges to their faith at a much earlier age,” said Bishop Fernandes in a public address. “Our young people need the grace and strength of the Holy Spirit much sooner.” He noted that the traditional confirmation age—typically between ages 12 and 16—has not prevented youth from drifting away from the faith.
The bishop emphasized that confirmation should not be seen as a “graduation” from religious life, but rather a vital sacramental foundation to accompany children through their formative years. The new plan aims to build stronger family engagement in catechesis and reinforce the Church’s presence in children’s daily lives.
This move aligns the Columbus Diocese with a growing national trend, following similar decisions by dioceses in Pensacola-Tallahassee, Baltimore, Seattle, and Baton Rouge. Each diocese has taken steps to adjust confirmation timing in order to address early secular influences and declining youth participation in church life.
Over the next four years, the Columbus Diocese will roll out comprehensive training for parish catechists, Catholic school educators, and religious education teams to ensure a smooth transition and strong formation programming.
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