On Wednesday 16 July, 32 people were confirmed at Canterbury Cathedral by the Bishop of Dover, Rose Hudson-Wilkin, marking a joyful moment in the life of our diocese.
These confirmations form part of a wider story of growth in confirmations our diocese. In 2024:
- 221 people were confirmed across 14 services
- Confirmations took place in the cathedral, in churches and in schools
- 116 confirmation candidates were aged 19 or under
A personal step of faith
People chose to be confirmed for many different reasons. For David Snook (pictured below), a volunteer at Hampton Primary School and a member of the congregation at All Saints Church, Whitstable, confirmation marked a meaningful next step in his faith journey.
“Confirmation represents being officially welcomed into the church family to receive communion. It felt like the right time for me to be confirmed, as it is an important step for me as a member of the church congregation.”
Matt Strellis, also confirmed at All Saints, said:
“My confirmation is a big milestone in my faith journey. Being confirmed feels to me that I can be closer to the Father, Jesus and the Church… Confirmation to me means I can play a bigger role in helping my church and be a more committed part of the Christian community.”
A community celebration
In February, St Nicholas CE Primary Academy celebrated as 18 pupils were confirmed at St Nicholas Church, New Romney.
This was the third year of confirmations being held at the church, with over 60 children and adults being confirmed during that time. The confirmation services not only mark a significant moment in the spiritual journey of an individual, but also provide an opportunity for both church and school to celebrate together.
Celebrated locally - recognised nationally
At February’s General Synod, the Revd Rachel Webbley, Team Rector of the Whitstable Team Ministry, brought forward a successful motion on behalf of the Diocese of Canterbury to add confirmation numbers to the Church of England’s Stats for Mission.
These statistics are another tool that enable parishes and dioceses to better plan and evaluate ministry and mission.
In response, the Archbishop of York, Stephen Cottrell, welcomed the proposal, saying:
“What an absolutely brilliant idea and I think we’re kicking ourselves about why we hadn’t thought of it before. Anything we can do to raise the profile of confirmations and to have more confirmations is a really good thing. This will help us in our mission. Thank you, Canterbury Diocese.”
Speaking after the vote, the Revd Rachel Webbley added:
“Synod was unified in rejoicing in what confirmation nurtures – new Christians of all ages – and how it can strengthen and encourage local churches."
As our diocese continues to seek revitalisation in every parish, benefice, and deanery, confirmations are not just individual milestones but communal signs of hope and renewal.
Could Confirmation Be the Next Step for You?
Whether you’re exploring faith, returning to church, or looking to deepen your discipleship, confirmation may be something you wish to find out more about.
If you’re interested in exploring confirmation, speak to your vicar, who can guide you through the preparation process.
To find your local church, visit www.AChurchNearYou.com