The sun was glorious, the confirmation candidates were excited, and the bishop turned up on a motorbike!
It was the perfect day for our Confirmations this year, and what a wonderful service it was!
The church was full of family and friends of those getting confirmed – we had seven children and two adults wanting to confirm the vows that had been made on their behalf when they were baptised as children.
The Bishop of Chester, the Rt Rev. Mark Tanner, confirmed 6 young people at a special Confirmation Service in St George’s Church, Altrincham this week. Each of the young people had spent time exploring their faith. They made the vows and then Bishop Mark laid hands on each person and asked God’s Holy Spirit to give them the strength and courage to follow Christ’s example.
After gathering together to explore their faith, each one came forward to say the vows for themselves and then be prayed for by the Bishop.
The Headteacher from Altrincham CE Primary School did a reading for us, and then later on in the service, those being confirmed then led us in taking communion.
Speaking after the service Bishop Mark said: “It was a such privilege to pray with and confirm 6 young people at St George’s Altrincham as they step out in joyful service of God and others around us in our wider community. Please join me in continuing to pray for them, thanking God for this step of faith and praying that He will bless them in the weeks and months and years ahead as they journey with Jesus. I pray that they will be encouraged and inspired as they join brothers and sisters in Christ, serving God in Altrincham and across the Diocese of Chester.”
A celebration can’t be full enjoyed though without having lots of photos taken, which was duly done before everyone headed back to the Parish Centre for lots of cakes and drinks – we’d even put the bunting out!