How to Join Saint Mary's
At Saint Mary's, you'll find a warm and welcoming community. While there's no pressure to join, our priest may reach out if you've been attending regularly to discuss your involement and whether you're ready to make Saint Mary's your spiritual home.
There are a few ways to join our church:
- Baptized Membership—If you have been baptized, either at Saint Mary's or elsewhere, you can be enrolled as a member by expressing your desire to make Saint Mary's your church home.
- Confirmation or Reception—If you were baptized in another Christian tradition, you may be Confirmed (if not yet confirmed) or Received (if already confirmed in another denomination) into the Episcopal Church by the Bishop during a visitation.
To formalize your membership, our rector (priest) will meet with you and gather some basic information. You will also be invited to make a financial pledge to support our parish.
What Does it Mean to be an Active Member?
Active members of Saint Mary's:
- Attends church regularly (unless prevented by circumstances).
- Support and participate in the ministry of the parish using your time, talent, and treasure.
If you have any questions about membership, please contact our rector for more information.
Baptism
Baptism is one of the two sacraments in the Episcopal Church and marks the beginning of a life in Christ. Whether for infants, children, or adults, Baptism is a sacred step toward faith.
If you're interested in Baptism for yourself or your child, please contact our rector. The rector will meet with you before the service to discuss its meaning and provide guidance.
During the Baptism service, our Saint Mary's community joyfully welcomes the newly baptised into the family of faith.
Confirmation
Confirmation is a sacred rite in the Episcopal Church, where candidates affirm their Baptismal Vows in a special service led by the bishop. To prepare, confirmands participate in faith formation classes to deepen their understanding and commitment.
In the Episcopal Diocese of Upper South Carolina, confirmation is typlically for those 16 and older, though exceptions may be made for younger members.
If you or your teenager are interested in Confirmation, please contact Martha McDade, cathechist, or the rector for more information.
