More Danish teenagers choosing baptism ahead of confirmation

More Danish teenagers are opting for baptism in order to be confirmed, with a 70 percent increase in baptisms among confirmation-age youth over the past five years, reports Danish broadcaster DR.

Three teenagers—Josephine, Victor, and Anton—are among those who recently chose baptism as part of their confirmation preparation. Unlike most Danes, who are traditionally baptized as infants, these teens made the decision themselves.

At Middelfart Church, nine teenagers were baptized in a single service, a significant shift from past years. Sognepræst Jens Backer Mogensen noted that while he previously had only one or two unbaptized confirmands annually, this year he has four.

“The trend is rising year by year,” Mogensen said. “We’ve had to adjust by scheduling a joint baptism service in January to accommodate the growing number.”

For 14-year-old Anton Cecius Drimer Pejstrup, the experience was both nerve-wracking and meaningful. “There were a lot of people, so it was a bit pressured. But it was also a good experience,” he said.

Victor Wolff Andersen, who was baptized alongside Anton, appreciated the group setting. “It was less nerve-wracking than if I had to do it alone,” he said.

In Glostrup, Josephine Lykke Jensen is preparing for her baptism on April 12. Though excited, she admits to some nerves. “I’m looking forward to it, but I’m also a bit nervous because my whole family will be there. I’m afraid I might laugh or feel awkward standing at the font,” she said.

For Josephine, the decision involved careful consideration. “I had a lot of thoughts about it, including how my parents felt. But they said I should choose what I believe in,” she explained. While she acknowledges some belief in God, she emphasized that her choice was not about gifts or celebrations.

Victor Wolff Andersen shared a similar perspective. “I’ve always believed in God a little,” he said. “But it’s not more now—it’s just the same.”

Anton Cecius Drimer Pejstrup cited community as a key factor, wanting to be part of the confirmation experience alongside his classmates.

The trend reflects a broader shift in Denmark’s Folk Church, where more young people are actively choosing baptism rather than simply following tradition.