Belong Before you Believe

If you are attending St. Matthew's, then you are a part of our parish family.  No statement of faith or paperwork is necessary to belong.  By virtue of showing up we are excited to count you as a part of what God is doing here.  We hope that through your time with us you will come to a deeper and more vibrant faith in Jesus Christ.  When it feels right a member of the clergy will be very happy to help you formally join.

Or Transfer from Another Episcopal Church

If you are already a member of The Episcopal Church, speak to one of the clergy to request that your membership be transferred to this parish. A membership enrollment packet will be sent to you. When the materials in the packet are completed and retuned, we will obtain a letter of transfer from your former parish.

Do I need to make a public statement of faith?

We all make a public statement of faith every time we worship by praying through the Apostle's or Nicene Creed.  You are not required or expected to come forward and give a testimony at a worship service in order to join St. Matthew's; however, at your Baptism, Confirmation, or Reception the Book of Common Prayer will lead you in a statement of faith as a part of that sacramental rite.

By the Sacrament of Baptism

The Episcopal Church baptizes people of any age. If you have never received the Sacrament of Baptism in any Church, speak to a member of the clergy about receiving Holy Baptism.  After a period of preparation, we will administer the Sacrament during a public service of worship. Following your Baptism, you will be presented to the Bishop for Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows and the Laying on of Hands. You may then be enrolled as a member. We will also be pleased to baptize your children.

Of as a Baptized Member

If you have already been baptized with water in any church, you do not need to be baptized again. Speak to a member of the clergy and request that your baptism be recorded in this parish. Upon completion of the enrollment process, you will be considered a "baptized member" of The Episcopal Church and this parish.

By Confirmation

If you are baptized but have never been confirmed in any church, speak to a member of the clergy about being confirmed in the Episcopal Church. Following enrollment and a period of preparation, you may be presented to the Bishop for Confirmation with the Laying on of Hands.

And By Reception from Another Christian Church

If you have received the Sacrament of Baptism by water and have made a mature public commitment in another Church, speak to a member of the clergy. Following enrollment and a period of preparation, you may be presented to the Bishop for Reception into The Episcopal Church with the Laying on of Hands.