Bierzmowanie versus rytuały przejścia
Confirmation versus the rites of passage

Summary/Abstract: The aim of the article is to describe the grounding for the need for social rites and to emphasize the dangers of associating them with Christian initiation included in the sacrament of confirmation. The need for rituals, which is a tendency more and more revived in the postmodern society, inspires to rethink the initiation character of the sacrament of confirmation, which is expressed in the very rite of its distribution and reception. Proper introduction of young Christians into the understanding of the essence of the sacrament of confirmation and into the rite itself can satisfy the need for the participation in rituals in general. However, this introduction should not be understood as an alternative to various cultural rites of passage, or to the rituals of initiation, but, first of all, it must be grasped as the experience of God’s presence in all stages of human life and of God’s invitation to friendship through the Church. Preparation for confirmation should help youth to realize that being a Christian demands the conscious involvement in the covenant with God, and Christianity is a chance for a successful life.

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