Last Sunday, we confirmed two teenagers.  A third teen went through the nine-month Confirmation process…and chose not to be confirmed.  Here’s the blessing we offered Miller.

Blessing for Miller (on the day he wasn’t confirmed)

Here at Pilgrimage, we say “No matter who you are, no matter where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”  We take that statement seriously…especially during Confirmation.

Miller has completed Confirmation—and is choosing not to be confirmed.  His reasons for his decision are his own; we don’t need to know them.  All we need to know is that Miller has reached his decision after careful thought…

…which is what Confirmation is all about—it’s about confirming the faith our parents and community have chosen for us.  If we take the Confirmation process seriously, choosing not to be confirmed must be a real option.  In taking that option today, Miller is demonstrating the radical integrity of the Confirmation process here at Pilgrimage.

And so, Miller, we honor you and the decision you’re making today.  We know it has come after careful thought and serious study.  Here’s what we want you to know:  this decision changes nothing about how we feel about you.  We love you.  We hope for your wholeness.  We care about what you choose to do with your life.

And if at any point in the future you decide to be confirmed, we’ll be happy to do that, too.  If you never choose to be confirmed, that’s fine, too.  We’re still going to love you, like, forever!

So, Miller:  Be blessed on your spiritual journey… wherever it might lead.  And know that wherever it does lead, our prayers and love go with you.