As students complete the confirmation process, they have the opportunity to publicly affirm their faith in Jesus Christ and their desire to live faithfully as one of his followers. This affirmation is made in front of the congregation during worship, and marks the time when a young person is officially received as an adult member of the congregation.
General Requirements
Confirmation is a voluntary process. Beginning in the 8th grade, youth are invited to participate in confirmation as they feel ready. Participants will officially begin their confirmation journey during a worship service through the Order of Enrollment. Some may choose to wait until they are older to begin, but are strongly encouraged to start before the 10th grade. Youth wishing to publicly affirm their faith through the Rite of Confirmation are invited to do so after they have met all of the following requirements:
• Be officially enrolled in the confirmation process.
• Successfully complete a two-year confirmation study program offered by this congregation, meeting the requirements of class and worship attendance, participation in youth activities, and service expectations.
• During their two years of study, spend one week at a youth mission trip/servant event, or ELCA National Youth Gathering. At least one event will be arranged or sponsored by Good Shepherd each summer.
• During one’s second year of study, meet monthly with an adult Mentor from the congregation, working together to complete all the activities of the mentoring program.
• Be examined and approved for confirmation by the Pastors and Congregational Council.
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