Confirmation at St Edmund’s Gunning
In her address to the candidates for confirmation at St Edmund’s, Bishop Carol Wagner, speaking from 2 Corinthians 5, reminded the confirmees that the reconciling work of Christ Jesus on the Cross has torn down the barrier of sin that kept us from a full relationship with God. She also encouraged everyone who gathered to support the candidates, not to ‘almost come to Jesus’, or to, ‘stop just short of the repentance and faith that will bring them (us) forgiveness and eternal life’.
The public profession of faith in Confirmation is an announcement of full allegiance to Christ. Georgia Granger and Charlotte Lees were supported by family and friends as well as the congregation of St Edmund’s as they made their profession. When the congregation of forty odd were asked by the bishop, ‘You have heard these sisters renew their response to Christ. Will you support them?’ the resounding response was, ‘WE WILL!’
Georgia (front) & Charlotte (rear), in prayer before the laying on of hands.
Georgia Granger commented, ‘Being confirmed was a step in life I wanted to make, to announce and rely on my own faith, and not just my parents’. I could think of no better place to be confirmed than St Edmund’s, a supportive community full of love and laughter. It was a lovely ceremony filled with thoughtful bible passages and comforting words. The church was packed and there was no hesitation to support us candidates throughout our Christian journeys. The service was nicely topped off with a spectacular morning tea filled with chatter and a delicious assortment of cakes, neatly tying up the perfect morning.
The Confirmation was held on 19 June 2022 in St Edmund’s Church Gunning, and despite 19th century heating, the atmosphere was warm and the celebration enjoyable.
The ministry from St Edmund’s continues to be a vibrant one, with younger people making strong faith statements this encourages not only those being confirmed but the whole faith community.
The congregation moved to the well-heated hall following the service. A hearty morning tea was enjoyed by all including the best egg sandwiches in the world. These have become a regular feature of after-service fellowship. St Edmund’s is a welcoming church and spiritual home for many.
by Reverend Hadyn Swinbourn
Picture at top: Bishop Carol with Georgia (left) and Charlotte (right)
