By: Ambassador Agim Godwin Apple
“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.”
—John 3:16
In the sacrament of Confirmation, the grace bestowed at Baptism is strengthened and given a kind of seal.
Without specific theological training, we may not be qualified to understand the full details or lessons on the importance of confirmation in Christianity.
This is a complex topic that involves nuanced religious and spiritual beliefs, such as in some cases, Confirmation preparation takes roughly six months and includes 80 hours of classes and other activities. During the preparation, candidates take part in parish activities and reflect on questions of faith and life both on their own and with their peers.
However, I can provide a general overview of how confirmation is viewed in some Christian traditions:
Confirmation is a sacrament or rite of passage in many Christian denominations, usually occurring during adolescence, in which an individual affirms his or her commitments made during their baptism.
It is seen as a way for the person to personally affirm their Christian faith and commitment to the church community.
In traditions like Catholicism and Episcopalianism, confirmation is considered a sacrament that confers the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
It marks a transition from childhood to adult membership in the church, with the confirmed person taking on greater responsibilities and roles.
The ceremony typically involves the laying on of hands by a bishop or other clergy member, along with prayer and the anointing of the person with oil.
However, the specific theological importance and practices around confirmation can vary significantly between Christian denominations.
I would also encourage the readers to consult priests/pastors, theologians or other religious leaders from their particular faith tradition for more in-depth teaching on this topic.
Amb. Agim Godwin Apple – The Espoo Cathedral,Finland.