Frequently Asked Questions
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Below are some questions newcomers and visitors often ask about
the Q: I am a Christian, but I'm not an Episcopalian. Can I receive Communion? A: Absolutely, as long as you have been baptized. Jesus is the host for the sacred meal we call Holy Communion and he welcomes all his brothers and sisters to the table, regardless of their denominational background or affiliation. Q: Can a person who is not baptized receive Communion? A: You will need to receive the sacrament first, and the Rector will be glad to advise you and help you take that step in your spiritual life. Meanwhile, come to the altar rail, cross your hands over your chest and receive a blessing. A: Yes. The Episcopal Church recognizes that some marriages die. The Church mourns with you, but welcomes you to Communion as part of your healing and growth. A: Just come to our Church services regularly and participate in the activities we have to offer. When you feel ready, you may either ask for your membership to be transferred (if you have come to us from another Episcopal Church) or that you will be confirmed or received. (See next question.) Whether or not your membership is formally recorded with us, you are invited to participate in our parish life. If you would like your gifts to the Church be recorded for tax purposes, ask for a packet of envelopes – or better yet, for a stewardship commitment form that will allow us to determine what talents and skills you can offer us in addition to your financial contributions. |
A: If you have already been baptized, the Episcopal Church warmly
recognizes that sacrament as valid; you do not have to re-baptized. If you have already
been confirmed in another church, we recognize that Sacrament. At the next Bishop's
Visitation, you will be received into the Episcopal Church. If you have never been
confirmed, you will be confirmed. In either case, it is expected that you will become to
our Inquirers' series to learn.
Q: What is the difference between the Episcopal and the Roman Catholic Churches? The Episcopal service seems very similar to the Roman Catholic Mass.
A: They are similar. Some parts, in fact, are identical. We, however, are part of the worldwide Anglican Communion – the group of Churches that are "in communion" with the Church of England. We have some doctrinal differences with the Roman Church – and, in places, we have differing interpretations of Christ's moral teachings. But, in our basic structure, order, liturgy and spiritual life, we are indeed very similar to the Roman Catholic Church.
A: It is both Protestant and Catholic. Since we are not in communion with the Church of Rome, it considers us Protestant. But our doctrines and practices are mostly more ancient than those of most Protestant churches, so we are also Catholic. An excellent way to put a label on the Episcopal Church is to think of us as the bridge church between the two great traditions, practicing what we believe to be the best of both.
A: You make that decision as a parent. Some parents want their children to receive Communion as soon as they are able to come to the altar rail and receive. Others prefer to wait until their children have received Communion instruction, which is offered in the first or second grade. If you are unsure about your own preferences in the matter, speak with the Rector.
Q: How is the
A: The members of each Episcopal parish elect a group of lay persons
to the Vestry, which functions much like a Board of Selectman does at the Town Level (and
perhaps more harmoniously!). The Vestry controls the operation of the parish and makes the
day-to-day decisions needed to carry on the mission of the congregation. Its meetings are
open to all members of the congregation, though only those elected may vote. Each January,
an annual meeting (akin to Annual Town Meeting) is held to elect the Vestry and set the
overall budget for the coming year. Occasionally, major decisions that go beyond the scope
of the Vestry's responsibility are also made at this meeting. It is open to all members,
16 years of age or older, who are worshippers and contributors of record.
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