joining saint ambrose

A person becomes a member of the Episcopal Church through the sacrament of Baptism.  A sacrament is understood to be an “outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.”  Thus, through Baptism, a person becomes a full member of the community. Baptism marks the communal moment when we acknowledge together that God is working within a person spiritually, and that a person has taken his or her place among the communion of saints on earth.  

Baptized Christians from other denominations become members of the Episcopal Church upon confirmation or reception, which is arranged with the clergy.

For new Baptisms, families of infants and young children will meet with the clergy to discuss the meaning of baptism and their responsibility as Christians, godparents and congregational sponsors.  Adults, older children, and youth who are interested in preparing for baptism are individually mentored by clergy and congregational sponsors in a year-round program.

Confirmation is the rite in which a Christian makes a statement of faith and responsibility in the church.  Youth who desire to make an informed choice about being confirmed are mentored by clergy and other adults prior to general confirmations by the Bishop. 

Membership at Saint Ambrose involves two additional commitments. First, a person participates regularly in the worship, study, fellowship and service of our parish community, and second, he or she makes a pledge of financial support to our congregation and its mission. When one meets these requirements, he or she becomes a full voting member.