NEXT STEPS: MEMBERSHIP
Are you discerning what it means to make St. Paul’s your church home?
There is no prerequisite to participating in any or all aspects of our life together. But, if you’re ready to make St. Paul’s your launching pad and safe place to land, we’d be honored to journey with you. Here are some of the most common questions around membership.
What does it mean to be a member?
In short, membership is an official way of saying: “I’m in. I’m committed to this community and the work we do. With God’s help, they’ll do their best to have my back, and I’ll do my best to have theirs.”
What does membership entail?
Members are baptized Christians who:
- Worship and grow spiritually together
- Support the church financially at an amount that works for them (We’re entirely self-funded)
- Live out Christ’s love through practices of justice, mercy, peace, and dignity for all of creation
- Don’t suffer alone. Let us know when you need support, whether that’s meals, prayers, listening ears, rides, or anything else. We’re here for one another.
Do I need to be baptized to be a member?
Yes. Baptism marks the beginning of your journey with Christ and ushers us into a family that transcends time, space, and place.
Already baptized in another Christian church? Perfect. We recognize all baptisms in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Never been baptized? No problem! We’d be glad to walk you through it. We baptize people of all ages!
Reach out to Mother Maria with questions.
What does it mean to be confirmed, received, or reaffirmed?
Confirmation is for those who were baptized as a child or those joining the Episcopal Church as a way to way simply reaffirm your faith and claim it as your own. In confirmation, you receive the blessing of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by the bishop and the prayers of the church community surrounding you.
Reception is how we welcome those already confirmed in another Christian tradition into the Episcopal Church. The bishop blesses you through laying on of hands, and your new church family surrounds you with prayer and support.
Reaffirmation is a chance to renew your faith commitment as an Episcopalian—whether after a time away, a life transition, or simply a desire to recommit.
None of these rites are required for membership. However, they are a meaningful next step on the journey.
If you are ready to take the next step, please fill out the membership form below. You may also contact our rector with any questions. Welcome home.
