| In any list of challenging experiences with adolescents in the Christian Church, Confirmation education emerges near the top. This ritual intersects with congregational life at many points, and has been the source of questions regarding its meaning, relationship to baptism and first communion, appropriate age, and lasting effect. In the initiation of the young, a group may re-live its history, clarify its aims and programs, and solidify its hope for the future. With the need for the Christian Church to engage and hold its young, there is increased concern to do a more effective work in guiding youth in religious development, and enabling them to reach that decision to affirm full participation in a community of faith.;The purpose of the thesis, written as a resource book for ministers and religious educators, is to examine the historical and Biblical roots of the Confirmation experience, to analyze the relationship of Confirmation to the ongoing program of religious education for children and youth, in order to give it perspective, and to provide resources for designing and enriching this introduction for adolescents into full membership. Various models are described for long-term courses, shorter, intensive weekend retreats, formal teaching situations, or individualized materials. Suggestions are made for sharpening teaching skills, and using a variety of approaches for this age group, at the same time encouraging the busy, conscientious pastor to make better use of dedicated lay persons who can share faith experiences with the young people. To encourage commitment to a way of life consistent with faith principles, and to invest Confirmation education with more meaning and vitality is a necessity, for this may be a crucial point in the adolescent's growing relationship to God and to a faith community. |
