June 22, 2014:

Ponderings of a Pilgrim Pastor

“What Is Confirmation?”

All people begin their journey into the Christian Church through the sacrament of baptism. Though anyone of any age may seek baptism (and by whatever method they prefer: sprinkling, pouring, or immersion), most are baptized as infants or very young children. Since they cannot promise for themselves, the baptismal promises are made by one or more parents and by sponsors or “godparents” if there are any. These adult Christians assume certain responsibilities for the Christian nurture of the baptized children. One of the promises made by parents and sponsors is to raise children within the Christian Church and to guide them in such a way that when they become adolescents they will decide for themselves to be confirmed into church membership. Baptism and confirmation are, thus, two parts of one commitment. Sadly, only some of those who were baptized as children seek to be confirmed. A precious opportunity has been lost.

When should children be confirmed? In some churches this is offered at age 12 which was my experience. For other churches 13 or 14 seems best. I have heard of churches who waited until 17 or 18 to offer confirmation. Whatever the age I have always told those I have been privileged to confirm (some two hundred young people) that their decision to be confirmed is the first adult decision they will make. Though parents and families may want them to be confirmed, they have to decide for themselves. I always tell my confirmands that if after we have been together they do not wish to join the church, I will honor that decision and personally explain it to their parents. Only one young person ever took me up on that offer! (Ask me to tell you the story!)

I have generally met with confirmands twelve times. I want to get to know them and for them to get to know me, as well as different aspects of the Christian faith and what it means to join the church. In earlier days, I used to do this as a “class.” Now I do it as a shared conversation. We learn and grow together. What details will they remember? I don’t know, but I do hope they will remember this was as an important milestone in their Christian journey. I also hope that they will become strong members of whatever churches they may join in their lives. I pray God’s blessings on them all.

Love,
Dave