Confirmation

The word confirmation means “with firmness”. For the students at Crossroads, confirmation means a continuation of their lifelong faith journey. Confirmation classes include an overview of the Christian faith, Scripture, history and heritage, practices, beliefs and commitments as United Methodist Christians. Confirmation provides a loving environment in which young persons can explore the faith and experience it through the Christian community, relationships, spiritual disciplines, service and other activities.

Confirmation in The United Methodist Church is a time of intentional preparation, leading to the first public profession of faith. During this time young persons "make firm" what has gone before: God's prevenient grace, baptism, the teaching and witness of parents and other persons of faith, the teachings and life together in the church, the student's own growing faith. Youth are invited to claim for themselves the name Christian and the name United Methodist. Confirmation is a significant step in the journey of faith. Unlike baptism, which is a sacrament, confirmation is a repeatable rite in The United Methodist Church. Standing before the congregation to profess one's faith as part of a confirmation ceremony is not limited to only one special time. In addition to confirmation of younger youth, the Book of Discipline encourages a time of intentional preparation and the rite of confirmation for older youth as well. We invite you to join us on our journey as we Claim the Name.

At what age should persons be confirmed?

Because the middle school years (6th–8th grades) are when young people begin to move from concrete thinking to abstract thinking, that is when most people begin to make lifelong faith decisions. However, not everyone is ready for such a decision at this time in life and a few are ready even before 6th grade. Also, during these middle school years, youth are seeking a sense of belonging. Belonging to the community of faith is an appropriate response to hat developmental task.  

What about confirmation for older youth, especially ones who missed confirmation in middle school?

The teenage years are important for making a commitment to live as a disciple of Christ. So, consider the possibilities for confirmation with older youth. Some may have been confirmed earlier, but are ready to make a deeper commitment. Some will have missed an earlier opportunity for confirmation. All older youth can benefit from confirmation study and an opportunity to confirm or reaffirm their faith.