On Mondays, I answer questions frequently asked by those considering a return to the Catholic Church. How do I know this stuff? I was away for more than 30 years myself, and am the co-author of When They Come Home: Ways to Welcome Returning Catholics, a book for pastors and parish leaders interested in this ministry.
Why do Catholics take a saint’s name at baptism and confirmation?
The baptismal name should, according to the Catechism, “provide a model of charity” or “express a Christian mystery or Christian virtue.” The name doesn’t have to be a saint, but shouldn’t 
express an un-Christian sentiment.
The Roman rite does not require the addition of a name at confirmation, but many cultures do so. Typically, the name chosen is someone whose virtues are admired by the person being confirmed. St. Therese of Lisieux is often selected, for example, because of her “little ways,” her efforts to sacrifice in everyday life, such as being kind to people she disliked, or doing chores she found distasteful. Others are inspired by St. Joan of Arc for her fearless, strong devotion to God. St. Paul is admired by many for his evangelization; St. Peter, for being human while at the same time being the rock on which our Church was founded.
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