Celebration as Three Confirmed at St Andrew’s Church, Bentley
St Andrew’s Church, Bentley, was filled with joy on Sunday, 9th February, as three members of the congregation took the next step in their faith journey through confirmation. Jamie, Deanna, and Elaine publicly affirmed their commitment to Christ in a special service led by Bishop Paul Hunt, Bishop of the Southern Diocese of the Free Church of England, assisted by the Revd’s Mark Spiers and Henry Birtley.
The service was a moving occasion, with family, friends, and church members gathered to support and pray for the candidates. Bishop Paul, who has now confirmed ten people at St Andrew’s within the past 12 months, spoke of the importance of confirmation as a strengthening of faith and a deepening of one’s relationship with God. Bishop Paul delivered a powerful sermon inspired by the song Is He Worthy? by Andrew Peterson, which is based on Revelation 5. He reflected on the profound message of the passage, emphasising Christ’s ultimate authority, His worthiness to open the scroll, and the hope and assurance believers have in Him. Drawing from the song’s call-and-response style, Bishop Paul encouraged the congregation to consider their own faith and to rejoice in the truth that Jesus alone is worthy of all honour, glory, and praise.
The service concluded with a time of fellowship. The confirmations at St Andrew’s are a reflection of the continuing growth within the Free Church of England. Bishop Paul has confirmed many individuals in the past year, demonstrating the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in local congregations.
