People often ask about membership in Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church. How does one become a member? What must I do to be a member? Is there an official process that a newcomer must follow? What can or can't I do if I am not a member of this parish? Here is, at least, a beginning of an answer.

Baptism is the first step in becoming a member of the Church, the Body of Christ. In whatever denomination you were baptized, it counts in the Episcopal Church. Anyone who is baptized can receive the sacraments offered by the church.

Three things are required of all members:

• regular participation in worship,
• financial support of the ministry of the parish,
• involvement in the activities and mission of the parish.

For those who come into the Episcopal Church from other denominations, there may be a time when you know that you want to publicly demonstrate that this is now the arena in which you choose to live out your faith. Inquirer's Classes can help deepen this decision. When there is the opportunity to be present with a bishop, Confirmation or Reception becomes the act that celebrates your official joining of the Episcopal Church.

For those who want to move their membership to Saint Barnabas from another Episcopal Church, there should be a request made to your former parish asking that a transfer of membership be sent to Saint Barnabas, Falmouth. That makes you official here.

Once a year, at our Annual Meeting, there is the opportunity for our new members to sign our Parish Register. A new member can do so if he/she has been fulfilling the three membership requirements for at least a full year or if a letter of transfer has been received sometime over the course of the year. Once the book has been signed, a new member of Saint Barnabas can take part in the votes which occur during the Annual Meeting.

It is important that everyone (new, more experienced, and barely beginning) take advantage of opportunities to learn about our particular ethos. The Episcopal Church has its own style that has been consistent since its early beginnings and yet ever faces new challenges to be faithful in the present. Look for small group educational offerings this summer and fall. Learn what it means to be a member of this church.

• Find ways to become involved
  At St. Barnabas we are committed to spiritual growth, mutual support, witness and service in our daily living. We are also called to follow the way of Jesus and to show His compassion, forgiveness and love to others. The ways in which we do those things are through involvement in some of the many activities that our parish has available. Whether you are called to sing in the choir, read lessons at services, be an acolyte, help with the homeless, serve on the Communications Committee, or help to build a Habitat for Humanity house, there will always be a place for you to lend your support. Getting involved is an exciting aspect of St. Barnabas, and one in which you'll get to know many Christians who are eager to make a difference.
• Learn about pledging
  A pledge is a thank-offering to God for the abundance of life and health and grace with which you have been blessed. A pledge involves choosing a portion of your resources for the year ahead which you would like to make available to the community of faith in which you experience God's active presence. A pedge to Saint Barnabas Church is your faith statement of active support. A pledge is one aspect of membership in the Episcopal Church.
• Download a Pledge Form (PDF).

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