Confirmation
Confirmation is a rite of the church wherein those who “are ready and have been duly prepared make a mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism and receive the laying on of hands by the bishop.“
[Book of Common Prayer p. 412]. The following prayer is usually prayed over the candidate: Defend, O Lord, your servant N, with your heavenly grace, that he may continue yours for ever, and daily increase in your Holy Spirit more and more, until he comes to your everlasting kingdom. Amen.” [BCP p. 418]
Reception is the welcome by the bishop of those who have been confirmed by a Roman Catholic bishop or received chrismation in an Orthodox baptism service. The following words are addressed to the candidate: “N, we recognize you as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church, and we receive you into the fellowship of this Communion. God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, bless, preserve, and keep you. Amen.” [BCP p. 418]
It used to be that one was not a member of a parish until one went through either of the above rites. Although that is no longer the case, it is still desirable and good to be confirmed or received. Because of our troubles with the Episcopal Church it has been impossible to have the rites offered at St. Paul’s. You are invited to attend, to witness, and to participate in the Rite of Confirmation being offered by Bishop William Murdoch of the Anglican Diocese of New England at St. Paul Lutheran Church in Westport, CT on Sunday, June 5, at 2:30 p.m.
Praise the Lord!
Christopher
The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton
Rector