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Adult Confirmation
and Reception
When non-Episcopalians begin to worship at St. James and decide to stay the question often comes up as to how one becomes a member of this church. This is a very good question because we don't have any hard and fast rules. In fact one doesn't have to formally become an Episcopalian to be considered a member of this parish or "communicant in good standing". From the guidelines of the annual Parochial Report a communicant in good standing "is a baptized member of the congregation who has received Holy Communion at least three times during the year, is faithful in corporate worship (unless for good cause prevented) and is working, praying and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God." So the first important thing about becoming a member is to simply come, worship and take part in the parish by sharing your gifts. Secondly, baptized members at some point indicate to the Rector their desire to become part of this parish and their baptisms are recorded in the Parish Register. Lastly, if the baptized member desires to be confirmed or received into the Episcopal Church (which makes one officially an Episcopalian), instruction in the Christian faith is given and the person takes part in a Confirmation Service with the laying on of hands by a Bishop.
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Youth confirmation
The Episcopal Church recognizes all baptized with water and in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit as members of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church. Those whose baptisms have been registered in the Episcopal Church are considered baptized members. Upon reaching 16 years of age, baptized members are considered adult members.
It is expected that all adult members of the Episcopal Church will be confirmed or received at some point. Thus, it is traditional for youth between 16-18 to attend confirmation class, and then be confirmed by the Bishop. If you or a child you know is interested in confirmation, talk to Fr. Tim.
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