CONFIRMATION
Confirmation is another sacrament in the life of the church. It is a public declaration that you renew your commitment as a follower of Jesus. The bishop presides at services of Confirmation. The bishop lays hands upon the candidate and prays for God’s grace to uphold the candidate in the life, faith, and mission of the church. For people who were baptised as infants or as young children, being confirmed means that you accept for yourself the promises made for you at your baptism by your parents and sponsors/godparents. In this sense, it is similar to the renewal of baptismal vows.
Preparation for Confirmation is a time set apart for intentional formation in our faith. When we prepare for Confirmation, we often take a close look at the history and thinking and beliefs of our Anglican Faith. Bible, discussion of faith questions, and discerning where you are in your faith journey are part of the process. This is sometimes called “catechesis”. Similar preparation is also suitable for those who wish to renew their baptismal vows, be received into the Anglican Communion, or for adults who wish to be baptised.
At one time, only confirmed members of the church could participate in many areas of our life in faith, such as receive communion, present or sponsor others in baptism, or serve in church leadership. The church, however, has re-visited its position. Those who are baptised, including those in other Christian traditions, are considered full members of the Body of Christ and, as such, full members in the life of the church community.
Adults and Youth interested in Confirmation should speak with the clergy. Services of Confirmation require the presence of a bishop and as such, depend on their schedule and plans to visit our parish. Alternatively, candidates may attend the Diocesan Confirmation Service, held each spring in the Season of Easter.