Confirmation is when we confirm publicly the promises that were made on our behalf in Baptism. It used to be the process we had to go through in order to be allowed to receive Communion.
The Bishop lays hands on us and prays for us, that our faith will be confirmed by the Holy Spirit – the gift Jesus gives to all Christians.
The symbolism of Confirmation lies in commissioning, and so, as the link with Communion has been broken, this service becomes a powerful new step into adult faith and service. It means we can ask ourselves the question:
“What does God want me to do with my life?”
The Bishop’s part in this service addresses the answer to that question, as he confirms and commissions us into adult ministry, whether that’s in our local church, community, or beyond.
The prayer for the Holy Spirit is God’s commissioning and empowering for our Christian lives.
If you have been baptized but not yet confirmed, and would like to know more, please contact either of the clergy team.