What is confirmation?

Confirmation was originally part of a the ceremony of becoming a Christian, taking place at the same time as baptism. It is performed by a Bishop and became separate when Bishops were no longer to be present at all baptisms. Adults who have not been baptised when younger are frequently confirmed at the same service at which they are being baptised.

For those baptised previously, confirmation marks the point in the Christian journey when a person affirms for themselves the faith into which they have been baptised.

For all, the intention is expressed to live a life following Jesus in a responsible and committed way. Through prayer and the laying on of hands by the confirming bishop, the Church also asks God to give them power through the Holy Spirit to enable them to live in this way.

More details can be found on the Church of England website

Receiving communion

For some time in the Church of England it has been the norm only to receive communion once confirmed. In recent years the church has moved back towards the earlier practice of allowing communion to all the baptised. This is the custom in Gillingham.

Interested?

If you wish to be confirmed or to explore the possibility please make contact initially by speaking to one of the clergy or via the Parish Office; the clergy will be very happy to discuss this with you.

There will generally be an opportunity to be confirmed, locally or at Salisbury Cathedral, each year.