One of the big differences between Confirm not Conform and other confirmations you've done is the iConfirm service. The iConfirm service is different from a confirmation service, though it can include the confirmation itself. The iConfirm service is more a chance to focus on the kids and what they have learned and thought about during the CnC program. It's maybe the biggest opportunity the congregation has to hear their voice and celebrate the work they've done. Good planning makes things less stressful for everyone and makes the iConfirm service the celebratory event it's meant to be.
Here are some thoughts to help you as you begin to plan this celebration.
1) Start planning as soon as you can First of all, if you haven't already done so, start planning your service. Take a look through the iConfirm materials that you can download from the website here. If you need, allow yourself a moment of panic, but also rest assured: this can happen! And it will.
2) Make the bigger decisions Remember that you don't need to pick the hymns or make the seating arrangements right now. First you need to make the bigger decisions: Do you want to do this as a separate service or incorporate it into a Sunday service? Will it include the confirmation (i.e. will the bishop be there?) or will confirmation happen at a different time/place? If it is a separate service and not during the bishop's visit, when will it be held? What personnel do you have to have (clergy, musicians, altar guild, etc.)?
3) Consult with the powers-that-be before deciding So you've picked a great date and time. Don't make that announcement until you have checked with the appropriate people. If you need the support of your organist, ushers, or altar guild, be sure to give them a heads up NOW. Believe me, it will make your life easier.
I'll have lots more info in later entries, but for now, here's just one more thing you might want to think about well in advance:
4) You'll need someone who can make the stoles One of the parts of the iConfirm service is that after the students recite their passage of scripture, they receive a stole signed by the members of the congregation. Instructions for making the stole are part of your materials. But you'll want to find someone (or more) who can put these together well before the service because you'll need some time to leave these out for members of the congregation to sign. They aren't difficult to make--if you can sew! And these may be a great way to include some people who aren't normally connected with youth ministry. But start making those connections now and save yourself some last minute worry.
I have lots more to say about the iConfirm service, but I don't want to overwhelm you, so this should be enough to help you get started. Good luck!