Bishop Paul Colton has asked if anyone in the Parish is thinking about Confirmation this year? If you are ready to take this important step of faith – do chat to any of the staff team. We would love to encourage anyone – young people or adults who are thinking about it to get in touch in the next week or so to let us know … below are some FAQ’s about confirmation.
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is a special church service in which a person confirms the promises that were made when they were baptized. If you were baptized at a christening when you were a child, your parents and godparents made these promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may be ready to affirm these promises for yourself and commit your life to following Jesus Christ. At a confirmation service, you make these promises for yourself. Your friends and family as well as the local Christian community will be there to promise to support and pray for you.
The local bishop will lay their hands on your head and ask God’s Holy Spirit to give you the strength and commitment to live God’s way for the rest of your life.
What happens During the service?
Confirmation usually takes place in a special service in your own church, at the cathedral or in another parish church, although it may take place during the main Sunday service at your own church. There will be hymns, readings and sometimes those being confirmed talk about their faith. After the Bishop has laid hands on each person’s head there will be special prayers – then there will be often some celebratory refreshments to follow!
There may be a rehearsal before the confirmation service so that you understand everything that happens in the service
How can I tell if I’m ready for Confirmation?
If you feel strongly for yourself that confirmation is right for you at this point in your life, it’s likely that it is. Pray about this and ask others in your church to pray for you. Talk to your Rector too, and even if you are unsure about being confirmed, you may wish to participate in the confirmation course to help you think about it.