On Belonging

Dear People of Grace, 

The Episcopal approach to faith is rooted in vows that one makes in baptism.  It involves renunciation of the various forces that draw us from the love of God and a commitment to follow in the way of Jesus, trusting in God's love and grace.  We vow to love our neighbor as ourselves, respect their dignity, strive for justice and peace, and commit to caring for Creation.   We are mindful that these are noble aspirations, which none of us does perfectly.   When making these vows, we know that we can only do it with God's help.  

When baptized as children, our parents and sponsors make these vows on our behalf.  As we grow older, we have the opportunity to make these vows for ourselves through Confirmation, Reception and Reaffirmation.  Confirmation is the affirmation proper. Reception is for those who've been confirmed in another church denomination and who now want to affirm their membership in the Episcopal Church.  Reaffirmation is for those who've been confirmed as Episcopalians, but who want to benefit from reaffirming their vows.  

On Sunday, November 30, Bishop Phil LaBelle will be visiting Grace, and we will have an opportunity to do the Confirmation/Reception/Reaffirmation liturgy during the 9:30am service.  This is an opportunity for those who are new to the Episcopal Church, or who have been life-long members but never formally confirmed, to make their membership in the broader Episcopal Church official.  

I was originally confirmed as a Lutheran when I was 13.  It was culturally expected of me, and while it meant I was now an "adult" in the Church, I felt more of an imposter than anything else.  When I later decided to join the Episcopal church in 2010, my reception had a powerful impact upon me.  It was a choice I was making, and my intention was enlivened as the Bishop laid his hands on my head, passing on the apostolic blessing.  

If you have never been confirmed or received, I would commend it to you.  It can contribute to a deeper sense of belonging.  If you feel you would benefit from reaffirming your baptismal vows, by all means step forward.  It would be good to have a whole crowd of us in the mix.  

Whatever the case, if you are interested, please reach out to me this week.  

Peace, 

Rev. Eric