Can a Catholic be confirmed as an adult?

Yes. A baptized Catholic who was never confirmed may receive Confirmation as an adult after appropriate preparation. There is no age at which someone becomes too old for the sacrament.

Why Confirmation still matters. Confirmation completes baptismal grace, strengthens the Christian's bond with the Church, and gives a special strength of the Holy Spirit for witnessing to Christ (CCC 1285, 1303). Every baptized person who has not yet been confirmed can and should receive it (CCC 1306; Canon 890). Confirmation also imprints an indelible spiritual character, so it is received only once (CCC 1304).

What preparation involves. Contact a Catholic parish and explain that you are baptized Catholic but were never confirmed. The parish will usually ask for a recent copy of your baptismal certificate. Preparation may involve classes, meetings with a priest or catechist, prayer, participation at Sunday Mass, and service. The goal is a mature profession of the Catholic faith, not merely completing an academic course.

An adult candidate must be suitably instructed, properly disposed, and able to renew the baptismal promises (Canon 889). The candidate should prepare through prayer and should receive the sacrament of Penance beforehand if conscious of serious sin. Confirmation, like the Eucharist, should be received in a state of grace (CCC 1310). A sponsor may assist the candidate by prayer, example, and encouragement.

Who administers it. The bishop is the ordinary minister of Confirmation in the Latin Church, expressing the sacrament's connection with the apostles and the wider Church (CCC 1312-1313). A priest may confirm in circumstances provided by Church law. For example, a priest who baptizes an adult or receives a baptized Christian into full communion normally confirms that person during the same celebration. Baptized Catholics who missed Confirmation are often confirmed by the bishop at a parish or diocesan liturgy.

If your situation is complicated. Missing records, an uncertain baptism, a previous marriage, or years away from the Church do not mean you should stay away. The parish will help determine what is needed. Marriage questions may need to be addressed, but they do not erase your baptism or God's call to full sacramental life.

Call your parish and ask about adult Confirmation or OCIA. Bring any sacramental records you have, and begin attending Sunday Mass faithfully while you prepare.