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• About St. C's

At some point, you may be moved to make an even deeper commitment to the Christian life and faith. Adults exploring baptism or any of the other forms of affirmation of faith prepare for that joyful step by taking part in a course we call Commitment and Faith. This is a series of 10 classes that explores the baptismal covenant, the call of the Gospel, Christian life in the Episcopal tradition and resources for growing in faith and service.

Adult baptism

We invite those who feel drawn to our community but who have not yet been baptized to consider God’s call to adult commitment and to talk with a member of the clergy about preparing for baptism with us. Our Commitment and Faith class explores the Christian faith and life as we consider the meaning of the baptismal covenant and its invitation to a life fully lived in Christ and with the support of a Christian community. We also explore what it means to be a Christian in daily life and work. The timing of this class enables us to baptize candidates on the evening before Easter at a service called the Great Vigil of Easter.

For those already baptized

In the Episcopal tradition, adults who were baptized as infants are invited to make a “mature public affirmation of one’s faith” as members of the Episcopal Church. This is done in the presence of the bishop, who represents the wider church, at a service held at Washington National Cathedral. Adult affirmation is for persons over the age of 16 and can be expressed in one of three ways:

Confirmation in the Episcopal Church is the rite provided in the Book of Common Prayer for baptized persons who are ready and prepared to make a mature, public affirmation of their faith.

Reception into the Episcopal Church is for baptized persons who have already made a public affirmation of their faith as adults in another denomination in a rite such as confirmation. The bishop recognizes these baptized persons as members of the Church and receives them into the fellowship of the Anglican Communion with a simple prayer.

Reaffirmation is a choice for confirmed Episcopalians who desire to express their renewed commitment to Christian faith and service. The bishop prays that “the Holy Spirit, who has begun a good work in you, may direct and uphold you in the service of Christ and his kingdom.”

Each year the diocese holds two services for these rites at Washington National Cathedral. Adults interested in taking any of these steps should consult one of the clergy; youth candidates over 16 may consult the Interim Director of Youth Ministries.

Click each link below for more details:

Learning About St. C's and the Episcopal Church
Joining St. Columba’s
Calendar
Staff Directory
Member Registration Form