If you are you a young person who was baptized as an infant and are ready for Confirmation; if you were you baptized in another denomination but never received into the church; if you have moved away from the church and desire to return; if you are curious about the worship, sacraments, teachings, or history of the Episcopal Church or wondering what "membership" looks like at St. Barnabas; or, if you have come through a significant development in your spiritual journey and desire a space to explore what that means with others, this class is for you!
Starting Sunday, May 17, from 4:00 to 5:30 p.m., and continuing each Sunday afternoon for 6 weeks, this course is open to all adults and youth who desire to ask questions in a safe place, to learn more about the Episcopal Church, or prepare for Confirmation. All adults and youth are invited to join this 6-week series, meeting with Father Jeff . While aimed at newcomers and confirmands, this course is appropriate for any person who is curious to know more about the church, or who wants to refresh their knowledge and commitment. We'll cover such topics as Episcopal history, the sacraments, and the Book of Common Prayer, as well as address our questions together. Upon completion, attendees may elect to be confirmed, received, or reaffirmed on Sunday, June 28th, when the Rt. Rev. Angela Marie Cortinas, Bishop Suffragan of the Diocese of West Texas, will be present with us for worship. Childcare available upon request (Email Emily Bowyer at emily@stbarbabasfbg.org to make arrangements).
Click here to sign up for our Going Deeper class!
Class Schedule:
Sunday 5/17 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 5/24 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 5/31 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 6/7 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 6/14 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 6/21 4:00 -5:30 p.m.
Sunday 6/28 - Bishop Suffragan's Visit - Confirmation service at 11:00 a.m.
Understanding Confirmation, Reaffirmation and Reception
Confirmation
Rooted in the baptismal covenant, Confirmation in the Episcopal Church is a sacramental rite in which a baptized person makes a mature and public affirmation of their commitment to Christ, affirming the promises that are usually made at baptism by their parents or godparents, praying to receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop. Find out more here.
Reception
The Episcopal Church understands that many people begin their faith and spiritual journey in other Christian fellowships. We recognizes and honor those spiritual journeys, Baptisms, and or Confirmations, and we welcome you into the fellowship of the Episcopal Church to continue that journey.
Reaffimration
For those who may have been away from the church for a period of time and want a new beginning. For those who sense that they are at a new stage in their spiritual life and desire to formally affirm this in ritual. Reaffirmation provides a rite for those who want to take stock of their spiritual life anew and publicly "reaffirm" their Christian vows.