This series of adult formation classes begins Sept. 13 and continues each Sunday in the Reception Room through Nov. 15. This series will to prepare those interested in confirmation, reception or reaffirmation for the Rt. Rev. Gayle E. Harris’ pastoral visit on Nov. 22. It is also open to anyone who wants to learn more about our faith tradition.
Teenagers wishing to be confirmed may choose instead to attend a series of three classes on Sunday, Oct. 4, Oct. 25 and Nov. 15 at 5 p.m.
If you are interested in confirmation, reception or reaffirmation, contact the church office at admin@saintjameswarrenton.org.
Fittingly, we will also celebrate an instructed Eucharist at 8 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. on Sept. 13. Before each movement of our worship service, Father Ben will explain the intent. This is intended to deepen your knowledge, appreciation and full participation in our weekly worship.
Background
When we are baptized, whether as a child or adult, “God adopts us as his children and makes us members of Christ's Body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God,” as catechism in the Book of Common Prayer puts it. As members of Christ’s Body, any baptized person is welcome to become a formal member of Saint James’ so long as they were baptized in the name of the Trinity. (Not sure if you are? Send an email to admin@saintjameswarrenton.org and Coy will let you know.)
But God doesn’t intend for our story to end there. God calls us to claim the responsibilities of our baptismal covenant and respond actively to God’s grace. The Episcopal Church — like many Christian traditions — recognizes these sacramental rites as outward signs of an individual’s commitment to that covenant. These rites require a bishop laying hands on the person making that commitment, echoing the practice of early Christians.
Confirmation is for baptized Christians who have not yet made a public affirmation of their faith. Reception is for those who have been confirmed in another Christian tradition but want to be formally received into The Episcopal Church. Reaffirmation is for anyone who feels called to renew their baptismal covenant after returning to the church after a period of unbelief or entering a new level of spiritual life.