Initiation As a parent Anglican / Episcopal 3 min read

Anglican Confirmation as a parent

What is typically asked of Anglican and Episcopal parents during the candidate's Confirmation preparation.

01 The parent's role

An Anglican or Episcopal Confirmation candidate is typically a teenager preparing for mature commitment to the Christian faith. The catechesis is the candidate's; the parent's role is the supportive one of encouragement, attendance at any parish parent meetings, and arrangement of family logistics for the day.

02 Through the preparation

The catechetical preparation programme is typically a series of weekly classes at the parish. Most parishes do not require parental attendance at the classes themselves. Some parishes hold one or two parent meetings during the preparation period, to walk parents through the rite and the family's role.

03 The Confirmation service

The Confirmation service is celebrated within a parish Eucharist with the bishop presiding. Parents are seated with the family in the front of the church. Family photographs after the service and a private family reception are typical.

04 Common questions

Do parents need to attend the catechetical sessions?
No. The catechesis is the candidate's. Some parishes include parents in one or two preparation meetings to walk through the rite; the priest is the source.
Can a parent be the Confirmation sponsor?
Anglican practice is generally more flexible than Catholic practice on sponsor eligibility, but most parishes prefer the sponsor to be someone other than a parent of the candidate, consistent with the wider Christian tradition of sponsorship as an extension of the family rather than a duplication. The priest is the source.
What does the parent do at the Confirmation service?
Parents are seated with the family in the front of the church. They attend the service, participate in the Eucharist where appropriate, and arrange any family photographs and reception afterward.

Last reviewed against primary sources: May 17, 2026