Confirmation
Confirmation is a commitment opportunity offered to students who are 7th grade and above. It is the chance for each student to purposefully learn about his/her gift of salvation offered through Jesus Christ, this name we claim of "Christian", and the church history that has brought them to this time and place as United Methodists. Each part of the confirmation experience is carefully planned and chosen so that each student is fully prepared as they consider their individual decision to become confirmed.
Commitment...This is a one time opportunity in the life of your student. It is asked that families commit fully to their participation in Confirmation. Students are expected to attend both retreats, all cless sessions, and participate in a mission project as well as both off site worship experiences. It is asked that parents sign this commitment pledge and return it to the youth office.
High School Students...9th - 12th grade students will participate individually, working through a 13 session curriculum with their personal mentor. These students are not required to attend weekly classes or retreats but are required to participate in one of the mission experiences and both off site worship experiences.
Family Contribution...We ask that families make a $100 financial commitment to Confirmation. As with all youth discipleship programs at First Church, money should not preclude any families participation. Please contact the youth office to speak privately about your situation.
Personal Mentors...Each student is required to secure a personal mentor to partner with them during their Confirmation journey. The mentor must be a non-family member who is an active participant of our First Church congregation. Personal mentors have a "player/coach" role in the Confirmands life. They offer a personal connection to our congregation at large and a valuable support to each student as they try to live out their faith beyond Confirmation. It is asked that they sign this commitment pledge and return it to the youth office.
Mission Work...Each student is required to complete 8 hours of mission work/community service. This is offered to them through Church Under The Bridge and/or participating in District YEAH.
Retreats...The confirmation process involves several specifically chosen aspects, a major part of this journey are the two retreats. These retreats "bookend" our Confirmation class, the first is held in January and the last is held at the conclusion of our 13 week study. Due to the nature of these retreats they are a mandatory part of Confirmation, and students must attend the retreats in their entirety.
Field Trips...There are three off campus field trips. They are scheduled to occur in October, November and January. Students are able to learn about their faith history and gain respect for worship that is different from our own Methodist tradition.
Congregation Beth Israel (a chance to connect with our Jewish heritage)
St. Williams Catholic Church (a chance to connect with our Catholic heritage)
Church Under The Bridge (C.U.B.)(an opportunity to experience worship with the homeless)