Parish celebrates 'biggest ever' confirmation service

A parish in Aberdare celebrated its biggest ever confirmation service last month as 59 people affirmed their Christian faith.

Two bishops were needed to confirm 52 children and seven adults over two services atSt Fagan's Church Aberdare, South Wales, on November 21.

The Bishop of Llandaff, June Osborne, and Bishop Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, laid hands on each candidate and asked God’s Holy Spirit to give them the strength and courage to follow Christ’s example.

The candidates came from two churches - St Fagan's in Trecynon and St Luke's in Cwmdare. Father Richard Green, vicar of the parish of Aberdare St Fagan, says, “This was our biggest ever confirmation service, and with 59 people to confirm we needed the assistance two Bishops.

“We have always attracted young people to our parish because we have a strong emphasis on youth and children’s work. Before the pandemic we had two thriving Sunday schools in St Fagan’s and St Luke’s Church; a youth club; a monthly youth service; and monthly Messy Church.

“All these activities provide a way in for young people and their families. Many people have spoken of the warmth of the welcome they have received when attending our churches.”

Fr Richard adds, “We began online confirmation classes last year during lockdown and have had to wait a whole year before we could have the service in church. Seeing the smile on everyone’s face made the wait even more worthwhile.”

For Spencer Jones, 60, who was confirmed during the service along with his daughter Sophie, taking his children to church was the beginning of his Christian journey. “Spiritually, I have always been a Christian - perhaps not attending church as much as I should have. However, my wife and I wanted our children to attend St John’s Church in Wales School so we started taking our children to St Luke’s in Cwmdare.

“Attending Church has been one of the best experiences of my life. Taking my children to church has triggered something in me that has given me a boost in my spirituality and yearning for guidance and knowledge. I feel that being confirmed is another step on the road of my spiritual fulfillment."

Spencer adds, “As a family we were very exited and it has become an event in our family's story. Before the ceremony my daughter and I chatted and chatted about faith. It felt lovely having that bond that will live with me forever. This type of conversation doesn’t happen with an 11-year-old that often these days!

2The day felt very similar to my graduation but much more spiritual and having my confirmation performed by Rowan Williams was extra special. His sermon will live with me for the rest of my life.

"Receiving communion feels like I'm at the right hand of Christ celebrating his life and ministry.

Pippa Gibbs, 11, attends Aberdare Park Primary School was also confirmed. She attends St Fagan’s Faith Factory Sunday School with her best friend Ruby.

“Me, my mam and my sister went to St. Fagan’s church when I was seven but had to stop due to swimming lessons but we joined back in May of 2019. Me and my best friend, Ruby, attend the Faith Factory Sunday School.

“I enjoy Sunday School and love to learn about God and the Bible through the various activities. I relish giving Sunday School feedback to Father Richard and the congregation.

“Sunday School has taught me about living a good Christian life, such as being a good and kind person and treating everyone with respect. I think these are all excellent qualities to have in myself.”

Nia Williams, 43, began attending confirmation classes with her daughter Alba, 11, as a way of doing something together,

“When Alba came up to the age of confirmation I really wanted us to do it together and I am really glad that I did,” says Nia. “The confirmation classes were really informative, and I realised that I didn't have to know everything or understand everything to have a relationship with God and that I could make small changes in my everyday life that would put me on the right path.

“I am thrilled that we finally had our confirmation made official and it was wonderful celebrating with my oldest daughter by my side.”

For her daughter Alba, going to church is a way of being with her friends and learning how to help other people. “I attend St Luke's church in Cwmdare with my mother and sometimes my sister too. I have been going to church since May 2019 but sometimes I have to miss a week if I have a football match.

“I enjoy seeing my friends in Sunday school, making craft activities, singing hymns, and saying my prayers. I enjoy learning about church and the stories about Jesus and his disciples.

“I enjoyed being confirmed and learning about church and God and how I can be a better person and help others.”

Find out more about the Confirmation service. To explore your Christian faith, contact your local church.