Confirmation FAQ's
What is Confirmation? Through confirmation students are given the opportunity to learn about and reflect on the basic beliefs of Christianity, to lean about the beliefs and policies specific to The United Methodist Church, and to make a decision for professing faith in Jesus Christ. Then they confirm that decision in front of the congregation.
Confirmation Isn't a Time to be "Re-Baptized". In preparation for being confirmed and as part of the Service of Confirmation, the congregation and the one to be confirmed are reminded of the vows made at their baptism (either by themselves or their parents). In the United Methodist tradition we believe that baptism is the sacrament that claims us as God's own. Confirmation does not complete baptism. Baptism is God's act; it is complete in itself. It is God's action and it is a once-and-for-all-time action.
When do you take Confirmation? Confirmation is open to students who are 7th grade and above. But, what about if you're in high school? Are you going to have to go through class with 7th graders? No. All students that are 8th grade up are placed in their own small group class. They do participate in the field trips, mission projects, and retreats with the rest of the group.
How and when do you register for Confirmation? Each fall the registration form is mailed to all students who are registered in the youth department and entering 7th grade. Students who do not receive the mailed forms may simply pick one up from the youth department or print one from the web site. Registration typically closes in September of each year. After registration closes you may register for the next years class.
Each Student Needs a Mentor. A major aspect of our confirmation program is the adult mentor. Each student is asked to secure a personal mentor from within our First Church congregation. We ask that this mentor not be a family member of the student. Mentors are asked to meet with students at least once monthly during the confirmation experience. They are strongly encouraged to participate in the two field trips and also the service project.
Confirmation Retreats. There are two retreats associated with Confirmation and they are vital to the confirmation of each student. Confirmation requires a committment to participate fully from each student and their family. Prayerfully consider your calendar before registering for Confirmation. If you feel that you will not be able to fully participate in both retreats, do not register but rather wait until a better time.
Family Contribution. We ask that families partner with us in the expense of Confirmation and make a $100 financial commitment. As with all youth discipleship programs at First Church it is important that financial need does not preclude a students participation. Please contact the youth department to speak privately about your situation. When do students participate in Confirmation?
Parents and mentors your volunteer participation is always welcomed. We are in need of drivers for our various off campus events. Please contact the youth office to let us know your willingness to help out!
- 2007/2008 Calendar
- Parent Covenant, Mentor Covenant
- Map to Congregation Beth Israel
- CBI trip Oct 12, 2007
Confirmation Opening Retreat
Below you will find two helpful links for the confirmation retreat. The first link is a list of items that students will need to bring and also information about departure and arrival times. Please make sure that we have a current Latham Springs liability release form prior to our departure. Please don't make plans for your child to bring a cell phone or to call you upon our arrival at the camp. Jennifer will call in the event of an emergency and will have her cell phone with her at all times.
- Click here for a list of what to bring and also information regarding our departure time.
- Please print and fill out the Latham Springs Form. Every student must have one.