Membership
Membership in the Episcopal Church is simply through the Sacrament of Holy Baptism. If you have not been Baptized, speak to the clergy at your local church (find a church). If you were Baptized in another Christian denomination, ask your local clergy how to have your Baptism recorded in your congregation’s register.
Adults and youth who have been baptized in another Christian Church but have not been confirmed, may be confirmed during the bishop’s annual visit to their church or at a diocesan confirmation service. Those who have been confirmed in another church (e.g., Roman Catholic, Lutheran, Orthodox) and wish to make a commitment to the Episcopal Church are “received” by the bishop at the same confirmation service. Episcopalians who have been away from the church for a time or who have experienced a significant spiritual renewal may publicly reaffirm their commitment during the same service.
Members who have received Holy Communion in this Church at least three times during the preceding year are considered to be communicants. Communicants “in good standing” have been faithful in corporate worship, and in working, praying and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God.
If you have questions about membership or want to become a member, be confirmed or reaffirm your commitment to Christ and this church, contact the clergy person in any of our church. If you would like guidance regarding which church to attend, please contact Canon Dena Cleaver Bartholomew.
Transferring to a new Church
Members of the Episcopal Church are customarily recorded in the parish register of the church at which they regularly worship. Should a member move away or otherwise wish to transfer to another church, they should ask the clergy of their current church for a “Letter of Transfer”. This letter should be addressed to the clergy of the church to which the transfer is being made.
A Letter of Transfer should certify that you are:
- A Communicant. All Members who have received Holy Communion in this Church at least three times during the preceding year are called communicants.
- Recorded as being in good standing. Communicants in good standing have been faithful in corporate worship, in working, in praying, and giving for the spread of the Kingdom of God.
- Have been confirmed or received by a Bishop of this Church
The clergy or warden receiving this letter of transfer should:
- Acknowledge receipt to the church that issued it.
- Record the information as conveyed in the parish register.
The person’s removal should be noted also in the parish register of the issuing church. Further information on membership and transfers is available in the Canons of the Episcopal Church