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How Do I Become A Member?

‘There is One Lord, one Faith, one Baptism; One God and Father of all.’

These words are part of the opening sentences in the service of Baptism. They are found in Ephesians 4:4-6.

Membership in the church is grounded in baptism. The Episcopal Church recognizes baptisms performed in other church traditions in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit for those desiring to become members. It does not matter if the baptism was full immersion into water or sprinkling at a baptismal font.

The ‘formal’ process for membership is entering into our parish register the person’s name and the dates of the person’s birth, baptism and Confirmation in those denominations that practice this rite. This is a simple process that includes a requestfor this information from the church where the person was previously a member. There is a Welcoming of New Members during worship on Sundays where new members are recognized, officially greeted and lifted in prayer.

Membership goes beyond the formal process. It is strongly recommended that new members participate in the Inquirer’s Class held once a year. This class offers the opportunity to learn more about the life, ministry, discipline and worship of the Episcopal Church. When this Inquirer’s Class is completed the people can participate in the Sacrament of Confirmation or Reception or the Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows. These services require the participation of a bishop.

For those still deciding on membership the Inquirer’s Class can be used to reflect and learn more about the Episcopal Church.

If an adult is not baptized our priest meets with the person for discussion in preparation for baptism with the understanding that he or she will be in the Inquirer’s Class and participate in Confirmation.

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