Prerequisites
7th Grade Prerequisites
- Know by heart (memory) “The Primary Texts of the Christian Faith” (See section at the end of this handbook.)
- Know by heart (memory) in addition to the “Primary Texts” (noted with an asterisk * on the “Primary Texts” document):
- Ten Commandments: Commandments 1-4 + Explanations.
- Apostles’ Creed: 1st Article + Explanation.
Those who wish to participate in spring Confirmation Class must complete an oral test. Please call the office (262-567-5001) to schedule a half-hour appointment with Pastor O’Donnell.
8th Grade Prerequisites
- 7th Grade Prerequisites
- Apostles’ Creed, Articles 2-3 + Explanations written test (see Catechism)[1]
- Baptism, whole section 1-4 fill in the blank test (see Catechism)*
- Sacrament of the Altar whole section fill in the blank test (see Catechism)*
Those who wish to participate in spring Confirmation Class must complete a written test. Please call the office (262-567-5001) to schedule a half-hour appointment with Pastor O’Donnell. Oral tests will be given along the way.
[1] This is just part of what was completed in 7th grade year
Registration, Worship, & Participation
- Read, Sign, & Return “Covenant of Participation” by the deadline.
- Worship and Devotional Life
- 75% year-round weekend service attendance (measured by turning in sermon notes and worship card registration)
- Turn in and discuss sermon notes in class
- Use Congregation at Prayer in the home. (Found in weekly worship bulletin)
- Confirmation Class
- Prepare for and attend class, including doing assigned homework.
- Public School students: Sundays @ 9:15 am. There may be some preparatory work that will be distributed before class via email.
- St. Paul’s School Students: Wednesdays (likely, but it will be one day/week on either Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday).
- Missed class work will need to be made up. See catechist.
- Do preparatory or homework that may be assigned by the catechist.
Foundational Knowledge (Memory)
1. Luther’s Small Catechism
Memory assignments will move the catechumen beyond the pre-requisites and toward mastery of the Small Catechism.
Applied Knowledge
- Confession of Faith (for 8th grade confirmands)
- Work with catechists
- Choose and memorize a Bible verse that speaks to who you are and who you know God wants you to be. This is your “confirmation verse.”
- Upon the Pastors’ guidelines and notification, using your confirmation verse and your Small Catechism, write a short essay on your God-given sacramental identity, how God—Father, Son & Holy Spirit—has been, and will be, working in your life.
- Present this confession publicly at a worship service.
- Service in Church (7th and 8th Grade)
- Confirmands will serve as acolytes (≥ 5x/yr), crucifers (as needed), ushers (≥ 3x/yr), and altar guild support (≥2x/yr) for worship according to a regular schedule.
- Attend the scheduled acolyte training (You only need to be trained once. Training is done in summer and fall).
- The church secretary will publish a schedule and email an on-line “sign up genius” to the home. If you are unable to serve you are responsible for finding a replacement and communicate that with the office and they will give you a contact list.