Rise Confirmation
What Matters Most
My desire as the pastor is to encourage students in the learning of the faith so that it might become their faith.
John 19:3 marks the moment of salvation when Jesus cried "it is finished." This work of the cross is bestowed by grace through faith instantaneously. We also read in Philippians 1:6 of the incomplete, lifelong growth unto maturity in Christ. So a personal testimony of faith marks the meaningful beginning of lifelong growth and discipleship as a Christian man or woman as much as it marks a meaningful conclusion of the confirmation program. I pray that’s your heart as well, to hear of your child’s testimony of assurance of salvation in Jesus Christ. Genuine faith is a gift of God and can’t be manufactured by either parents or pastors, so would you be particularly mindful to pray for your child, for all our confirmation students, and for time in God's Word to yield the fruit of spiritual life?
Program Objectives
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Define the Gospel in a biblical and practical way
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Recite (or write) selected verses and creeds from Luther’s Catechism from memory
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Know the Ten Commandments, Lord’s Prayer, and Apostles’ Creed
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Define fundamental teachings of the Christian faith
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Understand the New Testament and the Sacraments (Baptism and Lord's Supper)
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Identify the function of God’s Word as both Law and Gospel
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Speak honestly as to a personal assurance/lack of assurance of faith in Christ
Homework
Homework is not meant to be burdensome, but to engage the student at home in Scripture for 30min. Lessons are worked and reworked as a group, but parents or mentors are required to sign-off on 2 discussion questions each week. Homework: ​​
Attend and participate in Wednesday confirmation classes Regularly attend Sunday School and worship services Bring Bible, Luther’s Catechism, and homework to class Regular completion of assigned homework (Weekly) Submit sermon notes (Twice a month) Demonstrate memorization of selected passages of Scripture and Luther’s Catechism (Monthly) Complete a limited number of special assignments (writing of personal creed, developing of personal testimony, etc.)
Testimony & Communion
The capstone projects of the confirmation program are preparation of a personal testimony and preparation for communion. These projects synthesize Scripture with the faith journey of the student to establish significant moments in their growing faith. Know that Deacons, Deaconesses, and I are all praying for our confirmation students. -PK
