Our pastor asks that only 7th and 8th grade children participate in Confirmation study.  This is because younger children simply do not have the discipline or development of the mind to endure this more intensive study and fast-paced schedule.  Children under this age tend to be more distracting in class and do not complete their work consistently and thoughtfully.

Confirmation runs for two to three years.  Beginning in 7th grade and typically completing in the spring of 8th grade.  However, depending on class progress and proficiently, may require additional class time, up to an additional year.

These days, kids have it hard.  They are expected to do so much and oftentimes don’t communicate with their parents just how busy and overworked they are.  They burn out and they do not do exceedingly well any any of their activities.  We want to make sure that your kids are well-taught and able to confess their faith boldly before confirming them.

The first year or 7th grade class memorizes Luther’s Small Catechism.  They will study and memorize:

• The Commandments
• The Apostles’ Creed
• The Lord’s Prayer
• The Sacrament of Holy Baptism
• The Office of the Keys
• The Sacrament of the Altar

They will also learn the names of all the books of the Bible by heart.  Having these things memorized is considered proficient for moving on to the second year class.

In the second year class, confirmands learn to apply what they’ve memorized.  They will study basic philosophy, rhetoric, and logic, learn about what different church bodies teach, about cults and world religions, and they will write an well-researched essay which will help them bring it all together.  

Yes, and the main way parents can participate is to help their children at home.  Read the catechism with them.  Memorize it with them, pray with them, teach them the names of the books of the Bible.  And when they’re in second year, discuss world events, cultural matters, and your own faith with them.  It is the most important job of a parent to bring the child up in the ways of God.  The church and the pastor can only do so much.

Now, if you’d like to come and sit in confirmation classes, this is also encouraged.  Minimally, the pastor expects parents to sit in one class per year.

There is no cost to enroll.  Depending on the budget, the church will typically purchase the books and a new bible for each 1st year student.  Parents will be informed if this should change.

If a professional photographer is hired for confirmation pictures, parents are asked to pay for their own pictures.  The church will pay for a group picture.  

The REAL cost is sacrificial.  Parents must assure their kids are engaged, showing up for class, and keeping their priorities straight.  When the school or coach wants the kids doing school activities on Wednesday night or Sunday, parents, you need to stand up and say “NO” because your kids’ Christian upbringing and faith is so much more important than a game or event at school.  Instill this in them when they’re young and they will thank you for it later.