23 Candidates Confirmed in Southwell Minster

November 24th was such a joyful morning as we celebrated the confirmation of 23 candidates at Southwell Minster as part of the festival of Christ the King (the last Sunday before Advent). This was a particularly special occasion as the Archbishop of York Stephen Cottrell led and preached at the service, as part of his missionary visit to the Diocese of Southwell & Nottingham.

Every person who comes forward for confirmation brings a powerful story of testimony of God at work in their lives, one candidate reflected on their journey since baptism :

On my baptism day I felt that I became a new person. I had hoped that it would be meaningful time, but it was more than I expected!  Even the next day I felt different – as though I had a bit more of a purpose! I’m not sure yet what that purpose is; I am waiting to see what God shows me. But I already feel a sense of wanting to serve. At work I was disappointed that I wasn’t using my skills, but I found joy in serving my workmates, bringing them the tools they needed. It made work feel it feel more rewarding. 

Confirmation feels like the next step for me.  I’m seeking something, a higher purpose. During my preparation for Confirmation I read Psalm 139 

‘Search me, God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. See if there is any offensive way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.‘ Psalm 139:23+24

You can view the full album of photos here from the day: https://southwellnottingham.pixieset.com/confirmations-southwell-minster/