Anglican Confirmation as a guest
What to expect at an Anglican or Episcopal Confirmation service as a friend or extended-family guest.
01 Before the day
An Anglican or Episcopal Confirmation is celebrated within a parish Eucharist with the bishop presiding. The service typically runs about 90 minutes for a moderate class.
02 Attire and gifts
Church-formal Sunday attire is typical. A religious gift for the confirmand is conventional: a Bible, a prayer book, a cross or medal.
03 At the service
Guests typically arrive 15 to 20 minutes before the service begins. The candidates and sponsors are seated together at the front; family is seated immediately behind. The service follows the normal Sunday Eucharist order, with the rite of Confirmation incorporated. Each candidate comes forward with their sponsor; the bishop lays hands on the candidate (and, in many parishes, anoints with oil) saying "Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N. with your Holy Spirit." The candidate responds "Amen." The Eucharist follows; most TEC and many ACNA parishes practice open communion.
04 After the service
Family photographs after the service are typical; a family reception often follows.
Last reviewed against primary sources: May 17, 2026