35 Candidates Confirmed at Pentecost Eve Service
It was a Spirit-filled occasion on Saturday evening as 35 candidates from across the diocese were confirmed at Southwell Minster at the Pentecost Eve service. Bishop Paul led the service and spoke of knowing God as our Father and the particular power and gift of the Holy Spirit, drawing on Romans 8:14-18 and John 7:37-39.
The service provided an opportunity to celebrate the wonderful stories of God at work in peoples’ lives, with candidates representing 12 different parishes. Read a selection of stories below.
Joanne, Awsworth, Cossall & Trowell:
“I was brought up in a family who didn’t believe in God and have spent a lot of time over the years questioning what makes so many people believe in something that could never be proven. However every year my family & I would love to attend the candlelight service on Christmas Eve, we would go home feeling uplifted. For the rest of the year, I pushed away the feeling that I got from it and just carried on as normal.
I began to face various challenges and life felt like a battlefield. My husband suggested I go to church, to talk to someone who would not judge me and to perhaps receive some kindness. I felt I had nothing to lose so that’s what I did.
I went to church and met with Karen [the vicar] who listened to my story and offered to pray for me. As she prayed I felt this almighty bright white light fill my heart, instantly I felt so full of love, the most powerful emotion I have ever experienced. I have since attended 2 Alpha courses and have joined the church.
I feel that what happened to me was a miracle, a gift from God. I truly believe if I hadn’t walked into church that day I could of done something stupid. I have found a beautiful relationship, one that has completely changed my life forever.”
Kayleigh, St Michael the Archangel Halam:
“Since joining the church, I have found a sense of peace and a truly supportive community. I feel strongly that this is the path I am supposed to take and I believe God has come into my life at this perfect moment.”
Cassandra, St Mary’s Bulwell:
“I attended church as a little girl with my mum & dad and I’ve always felt a connection with God. When my mum passed away, it was a difficult time and I found it hard to come to church without her as we’d always come together. My children attend a CofE school and I reconnected with church through the school church services. With this, I began to feel a pull back to church and I felt this is where I needed to be. St Mary’s Church have brought me into their fold, made me feel so welcomed, loved and safe.”
Leo, All Hallows Gedling:
“My name is Leo and I am 10 years old. I have found the confirmation classes at my church very interesting because I like learning about God and the life of Jesus. I like going to church because there are a lot of nice people there. When I was baptised it was a really nice experience and I feel excited about my confirmation.”
