In 2018, the Confirmation Project published its findings. It was the largest study of confirmation practices in the United States. It included an ecumenical representation of churches, including AME, Episcopal, ECLA, PCUSA, and UMC churches. The study spanned three years. Confirmation is the formal name of educational programs and activities, which teach children and youth about faith.
Whether we use the term confirmation or not, we participate in the same programs and activities, teaching and supporting children and youth. The findings of this study are encouraging, instructive, and hopeful! The project confirms that second to faith formation at home, the frequency of attendance in worship, youth ministry, Vacation Bible School, and summer retreats have a deep impact on a young person’s faith.
These are all core memories, which shape and form us as people of faith! They foster a sense of belonging in a family of faith as well as cultivate an understanding of God’s loving presence in our lives.
The little things are quite powerful! Attendance in these activities cultivates around us a wider world full of nurturing relationships, allowing us to grow and develop as people of faith. They involve mentoring and modeling as well as listening and shared growth. There is no magic curriculum or program, but the retreats, service projects, and worship services are formative for young people, and all of us.
Our core memories are perpetual gifts because they continue to shape us! We continue to reflect on these core memories over the course of a lifetime. We remember the people who cared for us. We recall stories about our mentors. We cannot forget the “thin places”, where we experienced God’s love.
We are looking forward to another wonderful year of Vacation Bible School! We pray for the directors and leaders preparing for this week and the core memories our children will experience.
-Tripp Martin