The Confirmation Celebration in Wimborne Minster on 24th April, 2008 was absolutely stunning! 

My first memory is seeing Deacon Michael with four young servers make their way up to the Minster across the worn, uneven flagstones carrying robes and crucifix from the car park.  We were very warmly welcomed at the Minster by Mrs and Mrs Anthony Oliver (by coincidence, the current mayor and his wife) who had been asked to look after us which they did extraordinarily well from chairs for the photographer to clearing the Minster afterwards.

At 6.15 pm, candidates and sponsors were treated to a talk by Bishop Christopher in the crypt which provided a cosy atmosphere and put everyone a little more at their ease as well as giving words of encouragement and inspiration.  Afterwards, we tripped out onto the lawn for the group photo to be met by the glorious sounds of peeling bells which was magnificent and such a bonus!

The Confirmation service, at 7.00 pm, was elevated by the wonderful music from singers, musicians and the beautiful voice of Faye Eldret.  Sponsors and candidates read bidding prayers excellently, along with chief reader and bell ringer, Jane Dennett!  Again we heard wonderful words from the Bishop – two phrases which come to mind are 1) We are born to die and Baptised to live and 2) Keep the connection open (referring to prayer).  His down to earth and natural manner had most of the congregation hanging on to his every word.

The candidates spoke so firmly when invited.  Twenty-two times “I am willing” was heard clearly and set the scene for the Chrismation.  All candidates were invited with their sponsors to the front of the Minster (ably ushered by the magnificent catechetical team: Michelle Hooper, Pauline Faulkner and Peter Fryer who just seem to have a sense of how to meet others’ needs) where Bishop Christopher extended his hands over them in prayer.  One by one, the candidates climbed the steps for their anointing.

Finally, with heartfelt singing, the celebration at the Minster came to an end.  Families lingered with cameras and friends before making their way back to St Catherine’s church hall – many walked profiting from the mild evening. 

The nimble catechists had nipped back ‘de bonne heure’ to unlock/switch on/smooth over in readiness for the shared feast which was laid out around a beautiful looking (and tasting) cake which was iced with the confirmants’ names and created by Tracy Deary.

I was one of the last ‘guests’ to leave – having not been allowed in the kitchen by my over-generous and totally unselfish team of friends who allowed me to have time with my family.  I was overwhelmed by the whole occasion and when reflecting on it kept ‘filling up’ by the generosity of so many.  This Confirmation Celebration was truly a witness to community and we pray every blessing on the Confirmants.  Thanks be to God.