confirmation

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Rite practised by a number of Christian denominations, including Roman Catholic, Anglican, and Orthodox, in which a person who has undergone infant baptism confirms the promises made on their behalf, and is admitted to full membership of the Christian community. In Reform Judaism there is often a confirmation service several years after the bar or bat mitzvah (initiation into the congregation).

In Christian confirmation, a previously baptized person ‘confirms’ that they wish to be a member of the church. Confirmation is believed to give the participant the gift of the Holy Spirit. The service is usually conducted by a bishop. In the Anglican Church it involves the laying on of hands, while in the Roman Catholic Church the participant is anointed with oil. Confirmation can take place at any age, though most denominations require the person to be old enough to understand the significance of their promises; in Anglican and Roman Catholic churches, candidates are usually at least 12 years old. Candidates attend a series of confirmation classes, which teach them about the faith and Christian responsibilities. Until recently, preparation included learning by heart a series of questions and answers known as a catechism.

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