Confirmation

What is Confirmation?

Confirmation takes place in a special service with the Bishop of Birmingham, or one of his assistant bishops. It may be understood as a two-way confirmation:

1. You publicly confirm your commitment as a follower of Jesus. For those who have been baptised as children, this can be seen as you confirming the promises made on your behalf by your parents and godparents.
2. The Bishop and the church then pray for the Holy Spirit to confirm you in your faith, strengthening you and equipping you to live each day as a follower of Jesus.

If you have not already been baptised (follow this link for more information on baptism), you will need to be baptised as part of the Confirmation service.

How old do you have to be to be confirmed?

Traditionally Confirmation has been the point at which people start to receive Holy Communion. We are allowed to admit our children and young people to Holy Communion before Confirmation, and many of them have taken this step. It is for this reason that we suggest that people only consider Confirmation when they are ready to live out their faith publicly and to come onto the Electoral Roll of the church (for which you must be at least 16 years old).

What preparation is there?

Those considering Confirmation usually undertake a course of preparation. If you haven’t already done so, this normally includes taking part in the Alpha course over 10 weeks.

If you are interested in Confirmation, the first step would be to talk with one of the clergy or your Triangle Group leader.

For more information on Confirmation you can visit the Church of England or Diocese of Birmingham websites.