About the Episcopal Church
What does it mean to be an Episcopalian?
It means actively participating in God’s work through the Church:
- in regular attendance at worship and church programs
- in acts of charity and social justice
- in spreading the Good News of Christ to others
- in learning more about God
- in giving our means and talents to support God’s work in the world.
What are the beliefs of the Episcopal Church?
Episcopalians are Christians who promise to follow Jesus Christ as their Savior and Lord.
Episcopalians believe in one God, the Father who created us and all things, the Son who redeems us from sin, and the Holy Spirit who renews us as the children of God.
We believe the Bible to be the Word of God and to contain all things necessary to human salvation. We believe that God inspired human authors, and continues to speak to us through the Bible. The Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds are basic statements of our belief in God.
These basic beliefs are expressed in the Book of Common Prayer, especially the Catechism which begins on page 845.
How is the Episcopal Church structured?
The Episcopal Church is one branch of many in the world-wide Anglican Communion. It is often described as the “bridge church” because it includes both Catholic and Protestant traditions.
It is a democratic church, with bishops giving pastoral care and oversight (“Episcopal” comes from the Greek word for “bishop”).
In each congregation the ministry is shared alike by both clergy (priests and deacons) and the lay people.
How do Episcopalians worship?
In worship we come together as a community to give thanks to God, to hear God’s Word, to offer prayer and praise, and to celebrate the sacraments. The celebration of the Holy Eucharist (Communion) is the central act of worship in accordance with Jesus’ command to his disciples. All baptized Christians are welcome to receive Holy Communion in the Episcopal Church.
Specific lessons are read from the Holy Bible and the service follows a form from the Book of Common Prayer; with contemporary and traditional church music which is found in the Hymnal and Wonder, Love, and Praise.
Episcopal services preserve the rich worship and traditions of the historic Church. All present participate actively in this joyous response to God’s love.
How do I become a member of the Episcopal Church?
There are two ways to become a member of the Episcopal Church: by Baptism in an Episcopal congregation or by reception or transfer as a baptized person from another congregation or denomination.
One’s membership status is a matter of permanent record in the register of an Episcopal congregation. When any member moves to another parish, they are expected to ask for a letter of transfer.
If you would like to be baptized, confirmed, received or have your membership transferred, please call the church office at 658-0406.