I would like to condemn whoever started using this word to mean that they are convinced of something. Perhaps
Father Steve might have something to say about this: where I've seen it is in religious literature. Our former pastor would occasionally say this word, causing my teeth to be on edge. This word is being used as a verbified form
for conviction. Simple example: I am convicted that the sky is blue. Stupid!!!!! (Sorry, Auntie, I know you wish your sky would be blue.)