Confirmation is the sacramental rite in which we reaffirm our baptismal vows and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayers and the laying on of hands by the Bishop. Confirmation is also a way officially to become an Episcopalian.
“Renew in these your servants the covenant you made with them at their Baptism. Send them forth in the power of that Spirit to perform the service you set before them…”
– From the Bishop’s prayer in the Confirmation Service, Book of Common Prayer pg 418
Confirmation Program
The Confirmation Program at St. James’ prepares those who choose to re-affirm their Christian faith for being confirmed by a Bishop. The Rite of Confirmation is described in the Book of Common Prayer as “the mature reaffirmation of baptismal vows.” Confirmation is an opportunity to explore your identity as a Christian, and to expand your involvement in our parish and the wider church.
Confirmands make a commitment to each of the following areas (September through May):
Worship
Confirmands are expected to attend worship every Sunday and to take on a leadership role in the 9:10 a.m. service as an Usher, Acolyte, or a member of the choir. The choir sings most Sundays, ushers and acolytes serve monthly, lesson- and prayer-readers serve every 6-8 weeks. If you would like to try something new, we will teach you all you need to know!
Education
Confirmands attend class every Sunday from 10:15-11:30 a.m. in the Kinsolving Room (2nd floor). These classes will help to further prepare them for the undertaking the are about to be a part of. Confirmation is a rite that should not be taken lightly.
Community & Mission
Confirmands, and occasionally parents, participate in a number of fellowship and mission activities throughout the year:
- Friday Night Youth Dinner Program | 2nd Fridays, September through May, 5:30 – 9:00 p.m.
7th -12th graders are in charge of St. James’ Friday Night Dinner Program. We cook dinner, serve guests, and wash dishes at this seated, three course meal for many of our hungry neighbors. Friends and first timers welcome!” - Confirmation Retreat
Near the end of the program year, Confirmands take a weekend retreat to the Trinity Retreat Center in West Cornwall, Connecticut to reflect on their year together, spend time outside, and prepare for their Confirmation. - Youth Mission Trip | President’s Day Weekend (2024 dates TBA)
Each Year, over President’s Day Weekend, the St James’ Youth go on a mission trip. This year, the trip will likely be somewhere within the
United States. Stay tuned for details. - Confirmation Sunday | Usually mid-May (2024 date TBA)
A Bishop of the Diocese will confirm members of the class who decide to reaffirm their Christian faith.
