The Diocese of Saginaw’s 50-year Journey
PART 1
Over the past 50 years, the Diocese of Saginaw has been at the forefront of exploring how the Sacraments of Initiation—Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist—are celebrated. This journey reflects both a deep commitment to sacramental theology and an awareness of the pastoral needs of families and communities. The story of the restored order in Saginaw offers valuable insights into the interplay between tradition, catechesis, and practical ministry.
In the 1980s, under the leadership of Bishop Kenneth Untener, the Diocese of Saginaw implemented the “restored order” of the Sacraments of Initiation, placing Confirmation before First Communion. This approach sought to reunite the sacraments in their traditional sequence, emphasizing their theological unity.
Bishop Untener viewed Confirmation as a strengthening of baptismal grace, prepar children to fully encounter Christ in the Eucharist. This shift aligned with Vatican II’s emphasis on returning to the early Church’s sacramental practices, where Baptism, Confirmation, and Eucharist were celebrated together, particularly during the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA).
The restored order required significant adjustments to catechetical programs. Recognizing the importance of family involvement, the diocese emphasized parent-led catechesis. Programs were designed to ensure families deepened their own faith while preparing children for these sacraments.
This approach had the added benefit of engaging families in parish life. Many parishes reported stronger connections between parents, children, and their faith communities, fostering a more vibrant sense of shared spiritual growth. When families were involved, they were more likely to participate in other parish activities, deepening their commitment. This approach went beyond preparing children for sacraments. It integrated faith into the daily life of the family, helping parents model Christian living.
Part 2 will look at how the sacramental order was reexamined right around the turn of the century. Part 3 will provide the Confirmation plans going forward.