I pray that you, being rooted and established in love, may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. – Ephesians 3:17-19
Why do we gather?
In the first century Jesus of Nazareth inspired a movement. A community of people whose lives were centered on Jesus Christ and committed to living the way of God’s unconditional, unselfish, sacrificial, and redemptive love. Before they were called “church” or “Christian,” this Jesus Movement was simply called “the way.” Today our vocation is to live as the Episcopal branch of the Jesus Movement. Together we seek to grow more deeply with Jesus Christ at the center of our lives, so we can bear witness to his way of love in and for the world.
What do we believe about Communion?
Also called Holy Communion, the Eucharist (which literally means “Thanksgiving”), we believe that Christ is fully present in the bread and wine, and that partaking in this special is a way for us to be in communion with God, each other, and all creation. At All Saints, all are welcome to receive Communion at God’s table.
What do we believe about Baptism?
In the waters of Baptism, we are lovingly adopted by God into God’s family, which we call the Church, and given God’s own life to share and reminded that nothing can separate us from God’s love in Christ. Holy Baptism, which can be performed through pouring of water or immersion in it, marks a formal entrance to the congregation and wider Church; the candidates for the Sacrament make a series of vows, including an affirmation of the
Baptismal Covenant, and are baptized in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They are marked as Christ’s own forever, having “clothed [themselves] with Christ” (Galatians 3:27). All people of any age are welcome to baptized; we believe in one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins, as the “bond which God establishes in
Baptism is indissoluble” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 298). (Taken from episcopalchurch.org)
Why do we cross ourselves?
To cross yourself following the Western tradition, lift your right hand and bring it to your forehead. Then touch the center of your chest. Reach over to touch your left shoulder and then back to your right shoulder. For churches in the Eastern tradition, start by touching your forehead and chest in the same way.
When do I bow/kneel/sit?
Our service bulletin will indicate times when it is traditional to sit, stand, or kneel. There’s a saying that we sit to listen, stand to sing, and kneel to pray. There are some variations on that, but most importantly, do what is meaningful and physically doable for you.
Where can I learn more about the Episcopal Church?
https://www.episcopalchurch.org/what-we-believe/
