In the Catholic Church, the sacrament that strengthens and completes baptismal grace typically occurs during adolescence. This sacrament, a visible sign of God’s grace, involves the laying on of hands and anointing with chrism, signifying the reception of the Holy Spirit. The specific age at which individuals receive this sacrament varies depending on diocesan policy and local parish practices.
The reception of this sacrament is considered an important step in a Catholic’s spiritual journey. It signifies a deeper commitment to the faith and equips the recipient with the gifts of the Holy Spirit to live a more fully Christian life. Historically, the timing of this sacrament was often linked to first reception of Holy Communion, but practices have evolved over time to emphasize catechetical preparation and readiness for a mature understanding of the faith.