Join Us

Membership

Anyone who is a baptized Christian, from any denomination, may be considered a member of St. John’s simply by telling us that you would like to join our community. You maintain your membership by joining us in regular prayer and service, and by receiving Holy Communion, the mystical sacrament of Christ’s body and blood that opens us more completely to God’s presence and unites us to all human beings. Confirmation (or reception, if appropriate) provides a way to affirm your faith publicly and offers you the opportunity to participate in the leadership of our congregation, including serving on the vestry, and in the sacramental ministries of the church.

If you would like more information, please fill out the form below and someone will reach out to you.

Confirmation

Confirmation, the ritual in which we celebrate and affirm our Christian life in the rich tradition of the Episcopal Church, takes place during the bi-annual visit from one of our bishops or at the Diocesan headquarters. Confirmation is for people who were baptized as children or who are coming to the Episcopal Church from another tradition. The ritual is preceded by a period of instruction and inquiry offered through our annual Inquirers Class. At confirmation, the individual makes a mature affirmation of the promises made by their parents and godparents at baptism and joins the fellowship of Christians who worship and serve in the Anglican tradition. Once confirmed, the individuals may vote in parish elections and serve in elected positions within the parish.

Reception

Reception is for those who have already been confirmed in another denomination and wish to affirm their choice to continue their spiritual journey as an Episcopalian.

Reaffirmation

Some who are already confirmed Episcopalians may wish to be "reaffirmed" by the bishop when they visit St. John’s. Often this will occur after a period of study, reflection and prayer, including participation in the annual Inquirer’s Class. It may take place as a result of having accompanied a teenage child, or a spouse, or other loved one during their own preparation for confirmation. 

Inquirers Class

Inquirers Class is offered annually to  newcomers and members of the congregation who are interested in learning more about the Episcopal Church or in becoming a member of St. John's through Confirmation or Reception.  This class is also a great refresher for those who were confirmed years ago and would like to reaffirm their Baptismal Vows.  Our meetings are tailored to accommodate the schedules of all the participants, who will gather for six sessions. The class serves as preparation for our Bishop's visitations.  Please email Amelie with your interest or questions.

Baptism

Baptism is an occasion of great joy, the beginning of a new life in the Body of Christ and a welcoming into the household of God.  It is the sacrament signifying our identity as children of God and our commitment to walk in the ways of God throughout our lives.  Baptism is a corporate event, in which we celebrate God's love and embrace for God's people as unconditional and absolute; we are “marked as Christ’s own forever,” making Baptism a sacrament that is done only once in a person’s life.