Confirmation continues to be an important moment of reflection and commitment for some boys at Eton College. This year, 67 boys and partner school students were confirmed across two services, attended by around 1,000 family members, staff and friends.
The confirmations were led by the Bishop of Buckingham, the Rt Revd Dave Bull, who felt privileged to accompany so many young people at such a significant point in their lives. He said: “It was a holy moment… 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.”
As part of their preparation, the boys wrote short reflections on why they wished to be confirmed. Many spoke candidly and thoughtfully about choice, responsibility and faith.
For some, confirmation represented the next step in a lifelong journey; for others, it marked the beginning of a new exploration of belief and identity:
“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 service, the boys met in smaller groups with their House Chaplain to prepare and ask questions. In the lead-up, they were also invited to join chaplains on a reflective walk along the Thames, which concluded 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 The Kiyan Prince Foundation. He spoke very powerfully and had all the boys’ gripped attention for a full hour.
On the day of the confirmations, the boys’ and partner school students’ family members, staff and supporters, including their Head Master and local clergy, spoke of the deep impact that the service had on those in attendance.
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.”
After the confirmations, Bishop Dave said: “It was an honour to welcome these young brothers and sisters to the next phase of their church life.”
