A whole-church mentoring approach to confirmation in the Anglican Church
Confirmation is not an end but a beginning. Rather than the church providing preparation for Confirmation, the truth is that Confirmation is the preparation for a life-long journey of faith in Jesus Christ.
As a candidate for Confirmation you need to be ‘ready with your own mouth and from your own heart to affirm your faith in Jesus Christ;. But not in isolation, of course. This is a whole church community affair – it’s Family. The whole People of God are invited to share in the candidates’ decision, by promising to welcome ‘and uphold them in their life in Christ’.
The Confirmation Experience takes this mentoring approach seriously, with an apprenticeship or work-shadowing style in which the whole church participates. Confirmations then become opportunities for ongoing refreshment and renewal in the church.
Those being confirmed are introduced in a practical way to the challenges and responsibilities of living in the world as a Christian They are supported, advised and encouraged as they step out in faith.
Using the image of a journey, there are twelve very varied events rather than a course of study, in which all candidates take part together, along with other members of the church community.
Each candidate also starts a personal logbook, Stepping out in Faith. This continues as an ongoing part of their Christian discipleship. There are five different styles to choose from: 11-14 years, 15-18 years, adult academic, adult creative, and 11-adult with support.
Praying the Journey is a presentation book of prayers specially for those newly confirmed, as it helps them think and pray through the issues raised. One version of this is designed for young people and another for adults.
The aim of the whole programme is to celebrate Confirmation in a way that grows a healthy community of Christians, equipping and empowering new members, many of whom are young and vibrant, to take their place in the church with responsibility and confidence.
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ISBN: 9781844176045
Catalogue code: N/A
Publisher: KEVIN MAYHEW - published 12/06/2006
Format: A4