Understanding Confirmation In Christianity
Confirmation is a sacrament, also referred to as “the laying on of hands,” in which a bishop or priest anoints a person with oil and says prayers, confirming his or her membership in the church. This is usually seen as the next step after baptism, and is an important point in Christian life. It’s meaning and purpose is not the same in all churches, even those within the same denomination, so it’s important to understand the confirmation process for each church.
The traditional foundation for confirmation is found in the bible. In the book of Acts, during the fasting and prayer of the disciples, the Holy Spirit descended upon them and Saul, also known as Paul, was filled with the Spirit. The Spirit also descended on Cornelius and his family, and in that instance, the Apostles laid hands on them, so that the Holy Spirit was imparted to them.
Meaning and Purpose of Confirmation
The rite of confirmation is usually seen as a way to publicly declare one’s commitment to the faith, often described as a “step of dedication.” Confirmation is a sign of maturity in faith, having the courage and commitment to stand in one’s conviction, publicly demonstrating the strength of one’s commitment to the Church.
Confirmation serves to impart spiritual gifts to the recipient, strengthening his or her commitment to the Church and deepening their relationship with Christ. This can include spiritual gifts of discernment and wisdom, enabling the recipient to resist temptation, and live a life in keeping with the teachings of the Church. Confirmation is also considered essential by some denominations as an essential step in the administration of the sacraments.
The Confirmation Process
The confirmation process in most denominations begins by enrolling in catechism classes, studying scripture and the teachings of the Church. This is often done with a parish priest or pastor, to help prepare the candidate to make their confirmation. Other steps may include private prayer and study, and formal instruction on the meaning of the sacrament. Once the catechism classes are completed, the candidate is ready to make his or her confirmation.
The bishop or priest administering the confirmation lays their hands on the head of the candidate, which is a sign of the power of the Holy Spirit. The bishop typically will make the sign of the cross and give a blessing, often praying for the grace of the Holy Spirit. The bishop then anoints the forehead of the candidate with oil and presents them with the Bible.
The confirmation ceremony is often done in the presence of the the congregational community, who celebrate the induction of the confirmed individual into the family of the Church. This is often seen as a reaffirmation of faith and commitment, a demonstration of the seriousness of one’s commitment to the life of Christ.
The Significance of Confirmation
Confirmation is a meaningful sacrament for many Christian denominations, because of its core role in building the life of faith. Confirmation brings with it a sense of joy, but also a great responsibility to live the life of a Christian in the world. The sacrament of confirmation is seen as a commitment to the Church, a responsibility to act in accordance with Christ’s teachings, and an opportunity to seek out a deeper relationship with God.
The confirmed person’s confirmation represents a personal decision to serve God and strive for a deeper walk in faith. It also serves to bring them into closer relationship with their local church, by strengthening their bonds in the parish family. While the rite of confirmation is most often found in Protestant denominations, its meaning is widely recognized across many Christian denominations.
What Confirmation Means To The Confirmed Person
Confirmation is a highly personal sacrament, for each individual confirms for themselves their commitment to Christ and to the Church. It can also be seen as a moment of spiritual liberation, a way of releasing the bonds of doubt and indecision, allowing each person to fully embrace their faith in Christ and the Church.
Confirmed persons often go through a period of discernment, during which time they are encouraged to become involved in the sacramental life of the Church. They may also pursue further Christian education and join retreats. Moreover, a confirmed person also experiences a sense of belonging, as they are welcomed as a full member of their religious community.
The Ongoing Challenge of Being A Confirmed Person
The path of being a confirmed person is not easy, and it requires dedication. The Christian life is a daily battle of faith and commitment, and it requires sincere effort to remain connected to God, and to remain attentive to the teachings of the Church. Despite this, confirmed persons can find comfort in the life-giving presence of the Holy Spirit, as they remain open to God’s grace and learn how to put their faith into action.
At the same time, being a confirmed Christian person also involves a deep commitment to the Church, and to the community of believers. Through appropriate service and active participation in Church life, confirmed persons can be an example for others in the Church, celebrating together their common mission and their path of faith.
The Role Of Confirmation In The Community Of Faith
Confirmation is not only a personal call, but also a call to service and witness. Confirmation is a specific sign of the universal call to holiness, as it involves an explicit commitment to the moral teaching of the Church, as well as a commitment to witness the Gospel to others. Confirmed persons are therefore obliged to work for the common good and to benefit the community of faith.
The confirmed person’s mission is to proclaim the Gospel with their words and life. As a confirmed person, it is important to remember and embody the teachings of the Church, and to live a life of faith and love, reflecting the light of Jesus Christ.
The Role Of A Confirmed Person In The World
A confirmed person must be an example to the world by living a life of holiness and charity. Confirmed persons must strive to be obedient to the Church’s teachings, and they should cultivate in themselves a spirit of holiness and servitude. Confirmed persons should demonstrate charity and justice in their words and actions, living in a manner that speaks of the love of Christ in the world.
The confirmed person should also strive to be a source of comfort and strength to his or her fellow believers, helping them in their spiritual journeys and serving as a beacon of hope and faith. By living a life centered in Christ, they can be an example to others, and an inspiration to live a life of faith.
Using Gifts Of The Spirit In Witness As A Confirmed Person
A confirmed person should flexibly and humbly use the gifts of the Spirit for the benefit of the community of faith. Just as the Apostles used the power of the Holy Spirit to spread the Gospel in the world, confirmed persons too should use the gifts of the Spirit for the purpose of Christian witness. This includes sharing their faith journey, bearing witness to the love of God to all.
Confirmed persons are also called to be humble, continually relying on God and walking confidently in faith. Through humility, they can learn to rely on the Spirit’s gifts, and in turn use them to serve the broader community of faith.
Continuing Your Journey As A Confirmed Person
Confirmation is a lifelong journey of faith, and requires a continued commitment to the Church and to Christian witness. Confirmed persons should strive to live a life of prayer and devotion, deepening their knowledge of scripture and the teachings of the Church. Confirmed persons should also regularly attend church, participate in the sacramental life of the Church, and use their unique gifts and talents to serve the Church.
Finally, a confirmed person should also have a desire to share their faith with other. This includes actively seeking out Christian community, and also inviting friends, family, and acquaintances to attend church and continue on the path of faith. By doing so, the confirmed person can help build the kingdom of God in the world.
