Why Episcopalian? is a class that we’ll begin on Sunday, January 11, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the Guild Room. That’s the room through the side doors to the left as one enters the front doors to the nave.
The obvious question is: why are we embarking on a series that examines the “why” of the Episcopal Church?
There are times when I forget why it is I do whatever it is I’m doing. I can get so caught up in the task at hand that I lose sight of why I set out to do it in the first place. I wonder if the same can happen in our relationship with God—and with the Church.
In a sense, we’ll be building this plane while we’re flying it.
Yes, each Sunday will be rooted in a section of the Prayer Book Catechism (BCP 843)—Human Nature, God the Father, and so on. But my hope is that we will also go deeper, creating a space that is safe enough for honest questions: questioning assumptions, received narratives, and even long-held misconceptions about God and church life.
I happen to believe that the truth of God revealed in Scripture can withstand human scrutiny. God is not fragile, and God does not need defending. So we will do our best to mine the depths of both the Bible and the Episcopal Church’s teaching. And one result—my hope—is that we at St. Stephen’s will gain a clearer sense of how God, in Christ, through the Holy Spirit, is calling us to minister in this time and in this place.
As a practical matter, this class will fulfill the requirement for any adult who seeks to be baptized, confirmed, or reaffirmed when BISHOP FISHER visits on MAY 31, 2026. Please speak with me if you’re interested in participating in one of these rites. (Reaffirmation is not a sacrament, but it is sacramental.)
HOW MIGHT YOU PREPARE FOR EACH SESSION?
Bringing your Book of Common Prayer (1979) if you have one, if not, we have plenty and a Bible (your preferred translation). Bring your questions. Your doubts. Your hopes. Your fears. Bring yourself. And be willing to listen—not only to me, but to your fellow members of the St. Stephen’s family.
Each class will begin with a presentation by me, followed by ample time for discussion. This is not a “cookie-cutter” process designed to produce perfect Episcopalians by the end of the sessions. Rather, my hope is that it becomes holy space—space where individual and congregational discernment can awaken.
Please let me know if you have any questions,
Y25vcm1hbiB8IHNzZWNibXQgISBvcmc=. I look forward to being with you on Sunday mornings at 9:00 a.m., beginning January 11.
Curt+
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