Confirmation

Confirmation

Confirmation is a sacrament of commitment, where the grace of baptism is deepened and sealed by the gift of the Holy Spirit. It marks a joyful and serious decision to follow Jesus Christ for the rest of one’s life, and to live as part of his Church in the world. In the early Church, baptism and confirmation were one event — but over time, confirmation has become the moment when mature Christians affirm their faith and are strengthened by the Holy Spirit for a life of discipleship.

Confirmation is carried out by a bishop, to show that we are confirmed not just into a local congregation, but into the one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church — the Church of Jesus Christ in all places and times.

Those preparing for confirmation usually meet with Fr. Sam for around six sessions, following the catechism — a simple summary of what Christians believe and how we live it out. Confirmation services are organised at the deanery level — that is, by a group of local churches working together — so the service may not take place at SJB, but at another nearby church.

There are usually three or four opportunities each year to be confirmed. If you’ve been baptised as an adult, the Church of England asks that you are confirmed as soon as practically possible afterwards. If you feel ready to take this next step, or would like to explore it, please speak to Fr. Sam. It would be a joy to prepare with you.