What is confirmation?

Confirmation is the point at which you re-affirm your baptismal vows. The bishop prays that you will be confirmed with the Holy Spirit. She will lay hands on your head, and anoint you with chrism – holy oil. These two actions show that you have been set apart by God, to follow in the Way of Christ the King. Like baptism, confirmation is a sacrament – a sign of God’s grace.

If you haven’t already been prepared for holy communion at an earlier age, the confirmation service will be the first time when you receive Christ in bread and wine at the Eucharist.

What happens if I haven’t already been baptised (‘christened’)?

You will be baptised during the confirmation service.

How old do I have to be to be confirmed?

By the summer, you have to be in Year 5, or older. This is the age at which we think that you are old enough to make this important decision for yourself. Of course, many adults are also confirmed.

What happens if I am not sure?

Talk to parents, friends or the parish clergy. If you are still not sure, it may be best to wait. Sometimes people find answers to their questions by doing the course.

So there is some preparation for confirmation?

Yes, there are weekly meetings. Young people and adults meet separately

When are confirmation services?

The confirmation services are arranged with the Bishop and publicised in advance.

By when do I have to decide?

Forms are available in church in the summer each year, or can obtained from the Parish Office. They must be returned to the clergy by the beginning of September (the forms for each year give the exact date).

The Church of England website has further information.