Confirmations

St. Stephen’s offers a number of possibilities for adults wishing formally and publicly to affirm their faith. All of these rites are administered by the Bishop and require consultation and preparation with the clergy. Here are some explanations of these terms.What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is a rite in which a baptized Christian is strengthened for a life of faith. It is appropriate for young adults who were baptized as infants but who, later in life, wish to affirm their Christian faith and receive the laying on of hands by the Bishop, a gesture denoting God’s special blessing upon them.

Once associated with older children and younger teens, Confirmation is most appropriate for those mature enough to enter into a full understanding of the responsibilities of the Christian life.

Reaffirmation of Faith

An Affirmation of Faith is a rite for Christians desiring to make public declaration of their faith, perhaps after some years of absence or following an experience of spiritual conversion or awakening. This declaration is made before the Bishop and may or may not entail the laying on of hands.

Reception

Reception is the rite whereby a Christian formerly belonging to another Christian denomination is received and welcomed as a member of the Anglican Church.

The Anglican Church does not require such a rite, but sometimes it is significant in the life of a believer to mark outwardly a transformation that has happened inwardly, resulting in this change of membership.

Ordinarily the person being received does not kneel before the Bishop but stands to be welcomed as a brother or sister in Christ.