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BELIEF AND PRACTICE:
The Episcopal Church has
been called “the bridge church,” for we honor our Protestant and Catholic
heritage as well as contemporary thought. There are three guides or sources
of authority for our faith: Scripture refers to the Holy
Bible, which infuses our study, worship, and corporate life; reason
refers to our God-given ability to use our minds and to grow in
understanding of God’s world and God’s ways; and tradition
refers to how others in the past have experienced God and celebrated their
life together.
In addition to the
Bible, our basic theological document is the Book of Common Prayer,
which has formed Anglican thought and practice in its several editions since
1549. We are deeply sacramental, believing that Baptism of children
or adults is the door into the church, that the Holy Eucharist is the
central act of worship, and that other sacramental actions mediate the grace
of God in our lives.
INVOLVEMENT:
Activities and worship
at Holy Trinity Church are open to everyone, regardless of formal
membership. If you would like to be placed on the parish mailing list,
simply contact Mary Hitchner in the parish office. The
monthly newsletter includes news of parish activities and programs. Church
members will also receive The Diocesan, a monthly
publication of the diocese of Florida, delivered without charge.
MEMBERSHIP:
If you have been baptized and/or confirmed in the Episcopal church, or if
you have been baptized in another denomination, you may become a member of
this parish by asking the church office to write to your former congregation
requesting a letter of transfer.
If you have not received
baptism in a recognized Christian Church, you become a member of this parish
by baptism.
Those who have not been confirmed
are encouraged to consider this Sacramental Rite, which involves a renewal
of vows made at baptism, special prayers, and a laying on of hands by the
Bishop. The Episcopal Church recognizes confirmation by a Bishop in the
Roman Catholic Church, Lutheran Church, or the Orthodox Church. Those
who have already received confirmation in one of these churches are welcomed
by our bishop through a rite of reception. Those seeking confirmation
or reception are encouraged to attend an Inquirer’s Class.
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