In the parish of Eton, which falls under the pastoral care of the Bishop of Buckingham, confirmation continues to be a significant step for many young people.
The Bishop of Buckingham, the Rt Revd Dave Bull, led the confirmations. He said:
“It was a holy moment to confirm 67 teenagers across two services, with almost 1,000 people attending to witness. That number included students from Eton College and Holyport College [a state boarding and day school that has partnered with Eton College since 2014].
“Each of them wrote a few sentences about why they were getting confirmed and spoke very movingly about what their connection with God through Jesus means to them.”
The reasons for confirmation ranged from it being the next stage in a lifelong faith to stepping into a new life of faith. Some of the boys wrote:
“Being confirmed means that I, rather than my parents, actively chose to strengthen my relationship with God, which means a lot to me.”
“Commitment and free will. I make this choice myself.”
“Before I came to Eton, I considered myself more of an agnostic. When I got to Eton I not only found a Christian community (which I have always considered myself part of) but also a meaningful discussion about faith which has steered me towards faith in Christ. I feel ready and willing to confirm my place in Christ’s Church.”
Ahead of the confirmations the boys from Eton met in smaller groups with their House Chaplain to reflect, ask questions, and prepare. Closer to the day the boys were invited to join chaplains on a walk along the Thames. Along the way the chaplains offered meditations. Refreshments greeted the boys at St Mary Magdalane Church, Boveney, made available by the Friends of Friendless Churches. The walk finished at Dorney Lake, where guest speaker Dr Mark Prince, shared his personal story of repentance, reform and forgiveness. Mark is a former professional boxing champion and the founder of the charity The Kyran Prince Foundation. He spoke powerfully and had all the boys' gripped attention for a full hour.
The boys' family members, staff and supporters, including their Head Master and local clergy, joined the service.
The impact of the service has already been deeply felt by families. One parent wrote:
“We want to say a huge thank you for organising such a thoughtful and meaningful confirmation…our family and our son’s godparents were very moved. He was clearly touched by the importance of the sacrament and it has helped him understand his faith with much more clarity. We are sure the day will remain unforgettable.”
Bishop Dave reflected on why this service was particularly moving:
“It was an honour to welcome these young brothers and sisters to the next phase of their church life.”