Confirmation is the sacramental rite in which candidates "express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop" (BCP, p. 860). The rite of Confirmation is held every year at a local congregation and at St. Philip's when the bishop is present.
Those who were baptized at an early age and those baptized as adults without laying on of hands by a bishop are expected to make a mature public affirmation of their faith, recommit themselves to the responsibilities of their baptism, and receive laying on of hands by a bishop. This is the essence of the rite of confirmation.
Adults baptized with the laying on of hands by a bishop are considered to be confirmed. Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation are rooted in the baptismal covenant.
- Reception is typically for those who have been previously confirmed in a Roman Catholic, Orthodox, or Lutheran church. They are received by the Bishop into the Epsicopal Church.
- Reaffirmation is typically for those who have come back to faith or the church or who have gone through a spiritual renewal and wish to make a public statement reaffirming their baptismal identity.
The Episcopal Church's theology of Confirmation has continued to evolve along with its understanding of baptism. Confirmation is no longer seen as the completion of Christian initiation, nor is Confirmation a prerequisite for receiving communion. Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's body, the Church.
If you are interested in being confirmed please email the Rector or call the office at (248) 651-6188.
