Confirmation is a practice of the Church within the Sacraments. The sacraments are usually, for Anglicans in two parts dominical sacraments which are instituted by Christ himself (Baptism and Holy Communion), and the five commonly called sacraments (Confirmation, Reconciliation or Confession, Marriage, Anointing of the Sick, and Ordination). These rites or practices are deeply enriched actions of God's grace in our lives.

The two primary or dominical sacraments are required and necessary for salvation and are instituted by Christ.

While some Protestant churches shy away from the act of Confirmation as a Sacrament, the church universally has witnessed its power in people's lives, and because of this holds it as an important means through which God delivers his grace into our lives.

 

Undertaking the decision to be Confirmed is big for anyone. As part of the process, a person will journey with you to better understand the beliefs of the Anglican Church and in particular the Church of the Good Shepherd. The parish community is here to support you through the process of learning what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ and to follow him. As with many things in life, you will have to make promises, these are not to the priest, or to the Church but to Jesus.

Confirmation normally occurs within Sunday worship, where the Scriptures will be read, songs of praise are sung, and the body of Christ gathers to celebrate this occasion. Sometimes people will elect to have a sponsor for the journey with them through this process (but is not required) and they are part of the celebration of your commitment to follow Jesus.

With Confirmation there is no right age, the important part is that the person is able to answer for themselves, and understand the promises they are making. We encourage people of any age to contact us to explore further the journey of what Confirmation may look like. If you feel called by Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit to be Confirmed it may be the right time. Pray about it, just as the Church will pray as well. You can always do confirmation lessons to see if it is right for you.