In the Episcopal Church, we believe that Christian formation is the lifelong process of growing in our relationship with God, self, others, and all creation.
Formation during Sunday services
To grow in our relationship with God, we strive to understand Scripture well. Each week, our clergy preach and teach the Gospel message from the pulpit, and encourage parishioners to read and study Scripture.
The Episcopal Church reads through the Scriptures in a three-year rotation. (This three-year rotation is known as the Revised Common Lectionary.) Each Sunday, our lectors read Scripture passages from the Old Testament, Psalms, and Epistles. Our clergy read from the Gospels.
Our weekly services combine Scripture, liturgy, and teaching.
The Book of Common Prayer
The Book of Common Prayer “contains core worship and devotional texts of the Episcopal Church, along with other important resources” (episcopalchurch.org). The word “common” in the title means “enjoyed by all”. Thus, we use The Book of Common Prayer in our Sunday services, as well as in our private devotions.
In addition, an Outline of the Faith, commonly called the Catechism, appears in The Book of Common Prayer (pp. 845-862) and comments on the creeds in our liturgy, providing a brief summary of the Church’s teachings.
Other opportunities for Adult Formation:
St. Mary Anne’s enjoys a variety of ways to grow in our spiritual formation. Here are a few:
Coffee and Conversation
These events are periodically scheduled on Sunday mornings between services and are led by the clergy, parishioners, and occasional guests. Topics have included: Learning about our worship; Christian living; the church and the environment; and contemporary parish interests.
Education for Ministry Groups (EfM)
Have you ever wondered what journey God has planned for your life and whether you are on the right path? This is the question Education for Ministry (EfM) is meant to help answer. Each year there is reading on a piece of our tradition, i.e., the Old Testament, the New Testament, Church History & the Church Today. EfM also brings people together in Christian community and love. Biblical principles are brought into our lives and culture today, and through Reflection, our past, present, and future as God’s Children are examined. St. Mary Anne’s EfM groups are formed every September. For questions, please contact Carol Weisel.
Bible Study
We periodically provide Bible studies for our adults. Recently, we studied the Book of Revelation with Father Sam Hartman.
Confirmation
According to our faith, we believe that in the course of Christian development, those baptized at an early age are expected, when they are ready and prepared, to make a mature public affirmation of their faith. They also commit to the responsibilities of their Baptism. They make this affirmation and commitment in front of the bishop. Many young adults participate in Confirmation, but adults of any age are also encouraged to participate. For additional information about Confirmation instruction, please see the clergy.
Seasonal Book or Topic Groups
Occasionally throughout the year, we have special book clubs that meet for a few sessions or during a church season, such as Lent. An in-depth book discussion, often with an accompanying video, gives us the opportunity to delve into important theological study. Recent studies have included the Episcopal Church’s Sacred Ground and Civil Discourse curriculum.