St. Stephen’s Church invites all people into communities of belonging and lives of service, fellowship, prayer and worship.
This series of seven seminars provides an entry or beginning point for those who are interested in learning more about the context, culture, history, beliefs, traditions and contemporary practices, and the possibilities of Christian life in the Episcopal Church and at St. Stephen’s.
All are welcome, whether you are newer, a longtime participant or member, are from another faith or Christian tradition, or consider yourself spiritual-but-not-religious—all are invited to participate.
The seminars serve as preparation for those who wish to formally join the church in May when the bishop adminsiters the rites of reception, confirmation, and reaffirmation of one's faith.
If you are not interested in membership, that's fine. We warmly welcome your participation in this class and invite you to make new connections with others who share your interests here.
What is membership? Membership at St. Stephen's is about a depth of relationship and commitment in the community. In this church, all people are welcome to participate in worship and in most ministries, so membership is not about who may participate, who is in or out; instead, it is about claiming a commitment of faith within the community that Jesus calls together in this time and this place to share God's love, grace, healing, and hospitality with the world.
Transferring from another Episcopal parish: If you wish to transfer your membership from another Episcopal parish, you may initiate that process simply by emailing your request to Mary Feldman, executive assistant to the rector and vicar. Include the name and location of the parish from which you are transferring. We always invite you to connect with a member of the clergy to help establish a relationship here.
Becoming a member from another church tradition: If you are baptized in any other Christian tradition and wish to join the Episcopal Church, please meet with any member of the clergy and also register to participate in "An Introduction to the Episcopal Church." Depending upon your church background, you either will be "received" or "confirmed" by a bishop during the next annual visitation in May.
If you wish to be baptized: To prepare for Baptism, register for this class and establish a relationship with a member of the clergy. Baptisms are held monthly throughout the year in different worship services. It normal after baptism also to be confirmed during the bishop's annual visitation.