Although the Profession of Faith is not a Sacrament, it is an important milestone in the life of a Christian. The ceremony highlights the renewal of baptismal vows before the Sacrament of Confirmation.
The Profession of Faith is believed to have been invented by Saint Vincent de Paul and the great missionaries of the 17th century as a rite of passage between childhood and adulthood. It is not mandatory, but is a milestone in the life of a Catholic. It is an important occasion that allows a person to consider and cultivate their faith.
To prepare for the Profession of Faith, the child goes on a retreat for a few days to consider the importance of this act. The Profession of Faith ceremony takes place during the Sunday Mass of Pentecost. Its objective is to renew the baptismal vows in the presence of the godfather and godmother who had uttered them on behalf of the child upon Baptism. The child publicly answers “I do believe” to several essential questions asked about their faith. The child is dressed in a white Alb and carries a lit altar candle, making reference to the Sacrament of their Baptism.
The Profession of Faith was long considered a rite of passage between childhood and adolescence. It occurs around the age of eleven or twelve. It is both an important social tradition and a solemn commitment for the child, and should be honoured.
The Profession of Faith has gradually replaced solemn Communion, a great ceremony that developed in the 17th century. It is distinct from first Communion, which is comparatively called the private Communion, held around the age of reason – around seven years old – and which includes the Sacrament of the Eucharist. However, the Profession of Faith is just as important, since it gives the child an opportunity to perfect their Catechism and inform their faith before the great celebration that honours them.
The Profession of Faith arises from a personal decision. The godparents are not involved in the ceremony in the same way that they are for the Sacraments of Baptism or Confirmation, but the support of their presence is always appreciated.
Giving the child a gift is a way of strengthening a connection with them and reminding them of the importance of this act. It also makes a souvenir of this wonderful day. A Communion medal, a rosary, a Bible, or another inspiring religious text are sought-after gifts for such an important spiritual milestone.
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