Confirmation
Confirmation is an option for any student beginning in 7th grade and can be committed to at any point once that grade is reached. Our confirmation process for students operates on a fulfillment-based model. Here are some FAQs to help students discern if they are ready for this commitment:
1. What is confirmation?
Confirmation is the process by which one declares publicly their intention to become part of the Church community. In the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement, this process contains other professions of faith: the renewal of one’s baptismal vows as outlined in the Baptismal Covenant, the commitment to serving Christ and others inside and outside of the Church, and a dedication to participating in the life of the Church.
2. Do I need to be baptized before I am confirmed?
Yes, baptism is a prerequisite to confirmation. This is because baptism includes a commitment to one’s faith in Christ as well as the Baptismal Covenant, outlined in the Book of Common Prayer, which is renewed during the confirmation ceremony.
3. Why should I get confirmed?
Confirmation is meant to be a personal decision made by the individual entering the process. That is the first thing to consider when answering this question. If you are looking to become part of this worshipping community in an official capacity, confirmation is for you. If you are looking to deepen your understanding of your Christian faith, confirmation is for you. If you are looking to understand what it means to be Episcopalian, confirmation is for you. If you are looking to make an intentional commitment to your faith journey in a structured, tangible way, confirmation is for you.
4. Why fulfillment's?
As mentioned in the above question, confirmation is meant to be a personal decision. Therefore, we want the process to have the flexibility that allows it to be tailored to what makes sense for each individual committing to it. While the fulfillments are suggested to be completed within one year, the real goal is creating a commitment to lifelong cultivation of faith in Christ within the life of the Church. That means these fulfillments could take someone longer to complete, and that is okay! It also means these fulfillments can be checked off in any order that makes sense to each participant. It is all about the journey. These fulfillments are not meant to be a checklist to complete and then be done. They are outlined to help each individual see the importance of their faith journey and how that can be lived out through the confirmation process and beyond. These fulfillments are just the beginning of the lifelong journey in the Christian faith. It will take different shapes and forms all through one’s life. These fulfillments are simply here to help set the groundwork.
To access the list of fulfillments, click the button below!
You can direct any further questions to Tym House or Hannah Teetor, Minister and Assistant Minister for Family Discipleship.
