Zion Evangelical
Lutheran Church
Guidelines & Expectations
for the Rite of Confirmation
In the rich tradition of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, the Rite of Confirmation is an expression of the church’s recognition of God’s gift in Baptism, and public affirmation by the Confirmand of his/her baptismal covenant.
The Rite of Confirmation is available to all those who confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Understanding that individuals come to this Rite at different ages and under different circumstances, the church makes the Rite available to anyone who wishes to participate. The catechetical process is a 1-year period of instruction which will regularly begin when the student is in enters 7th grade. The Rite of Confirmation is held in the spring on Pentecost, upon the completion of the program. In some cases a candidate may be ready to enter the confirmation program prior to 7th grade. This decision will be made by the candidate (candidate’s family if the candidate is a minor) the Pastor, and the Christian Education Superintendent.
In today’s fast paced society, we are aware of the stress placed upon students, and parents by the many activities that compete for time. The program is designed to be completed in one year; however, students and parents are free to complete the requirements at the student’s own pace. Students will be confirmed after all requirements have been met. This provides flexibility given today’s world, while maintaining the integrity and importance of the process for faith development of the student.
Confirmation class will be held on Thursday evening for approximately 1.5 hours during the academic year (September-May). Instruction is presented using the Colaborate: Lutheran Confirmation Curriculum by Sparkhouse. (See attached Scope & Sequence). This new curriculum provides a much deeper comprehensive course of study than previous programs, in a shorter timeframe.
Attendance: Attendance will be taken at each class throughout the academic year (September-May). Students missing Confirmation Class will be given self-study and written makeup assignments.
Attendance at the worship services is expected. Students have a choice to attend either the 5:30pm Saturday service, or the 9am Sunday service. In addition students must attend High Holiday services, and at least one Holy Week service determined by the Pastor, & Christian Education Superintendent.
Service: Students are expected to serve the church during the period of Confirmation instruction. Service opportunities include serving at church functions, as well as participating in the worship service as acolytes, ushers, greeters, and other age appropriate duties as directed by the Pastor, & Christian Education Superintendent.
Youth Sunday: Each year all students will participate in the service, on Youth Sunday. Students will serve the church by as greeters, and ushers upon the arrival of the congregation. During the service students will participate in the worship by serving as the cantor, lector, and lay communion assistant.
Loaves & Fishes Ministry: All confirmation students will participate in the Loaves & Fishes Youth Ministry. Loaves & Fishes Youth Ministry works in collaboration with High School aged Youth that have completed the Confirmation Program. Loaves & Fishes is an introductory program into the outreach programs of our church, and service to the community. Students will learn fundamental biblical principles such as serving others, having empathy and compassion, as well as tithing. Students will assist in the planning and execution of new fundraising, and outreach opportunities in our community. Serving others teaches the students a sense of ownership, and responsibility.
Thank you for your generous support of our youth ministries. If you’d like to donate to the program, please indicate “Confirmation Class” on your donation.