Confirmation is another sacrament in the life of the church, in which some people choose to publicly declare that they renew their commitment as followers of Jesus. The bishop presides at services of Confirmation, laying hands upon each candidate and praying for God’s grace to uphold them in the life, faith, and mission of the church. For people who were baptized as infants or as young children, being confirmed means that they accept for themselves the promises made for them at their baptism by their parents and sponsors/godparents. In this sense, it’s similar to the Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows.

Preparation for confirmation is a time set apart for intentional formation in our faith. When people prepare for confirmation, they often take a close look at the history, thinking, and beliefs of the Anglican faith. Bible study, discussion of faith questions, and discerning where they are in their faith journey are part of the process. This is sometimes called “catechesis.” Similar preparation is also suitable for those who wish to reaffirm their baptismal vows or be received into the Anglican Communion, or for adults who wish to be baptized.

At one time, only confirmed members of the church could participate in many areas of our life in faith, such as receiving communion, being married in our church, presenting or sponsoring others in baptism, or serving in church leadership. The church, however, has revisited its position. All who are baptized, 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 teens interested in confirmation should speak with our priest. Services of Confirmation require the presence of a bishop and therefore depend on their schedule and plans to visit our parish. Our bishop typically visits us once a year. Alternatively, candidates may attend the diocesan Confirmation service, held each spring in the season of Easter.