How Do I Become a Member of St. Christophers Church?

There are different ways to become a member, depending on your past faith experience. Because of this, there are a variety of responses to a simple question. Please feel free to speak with the Rector about joining St. Christophers, or about any other questions you might have.

Baptism

Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christs Body. One becomes a Christian, a member of the body of Christ, through the sacrament of Holy Baptism. Adults prepare for Baptism in the Inquirers Class or preparatory sessions with the Rector. Teens prepare for Baptism in the Youth Confirmation Class or preparatory sessions with the Rector. The families of infants and young children prepare for the Baptism of those children in sessions with the Rector. Those who are baptized at St. Christophers are typically enrolled as members of this parish.

Confirmation

Confirmation is the rite by which those have been Baptized as infants or small children make a mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism, and receive the laying on of hands by the Bishop. Adults and older teens prepare for Confirmation in the Adult Inquirers Class or the Youth Confirmation Class. Those who are Confirmed at St. Christophers are typically enrolled as members of this parish. Confirmation is required for some leadership positions in the Episcopal Church.

If you are already Baptized in another Denomination

You may become an Episcopalian by being Confirmed. Or you may become a member of St. Christophers through a canonical letter of transfer. We will write, on your behalf, to the parish in which you were last a member and ask them to send us such a letter.

If you are already Confirmed in another Denomination

You may become an Episcopalian by being formally Received into the Episcopal Church when the Bishop come for Confirmation. Or you may become a member of St. Christophers through a canonical letter of transfer. We will write, on your behalf, to the parish in which you were last a member and ask them to send us such a letter.

If you are already Baptized or Confirmed in the Episcopal Church

You may become a member of St. Christophers through a canonical letter of transfer from the Episcopal church you were last a member. We will write to that parish, on your behalf, requesting such a letter. Once we receive the letter, you will be enrolled as a member of St. Christophers.

Adult Inquirers Class

This class offers and opportunity to learn more about the Christian faith in general and the Episcopal Church in particular. It is also a place for participants to explore and deepen their own faith. For some participants in the class, it is an opportunity to prepare to make a mature commitment to Christ and the church through Baptism, Confirmation, Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows or Reception into the Episcopal Church.