It is our great pleasure and honor each week to welcome visitors, guests and newcomers who come through our doors.  For some, a visit to St. James’ is because of a visit to family or friends who are members here.  And for some, it is a part of the process of finding a church “home.”  Sometimes, folks visit for months before feeling that this is the place for them.  For others, it is an immediate reaction.  Whatever the case may be, the process of joining can take several paths.  If that is your situation perhaps this information may be helpful to you.

 

You are welcome to fill out the electronic Membership Form at any time.

 

If you are a member of another Episcopal Church or the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) and would like to transfer your membership to St. James’:

 

Contact Sue Hunter in the church office 417-881-3073.  We will request the transfer for you and will notify you of its arrival.  You will also have the opportunity to visit with a member of the staff or attend a Membership Class to help familiarize you with the many opportunities for ministry at St. James’.

 

If you are a baptized member of another Christian denomination and wish to be a member of St. James’:

 

You may follow one of two tracks: (1) Bring your baptismal certificate or a letter from the church where you were baptized to the church office and we will record that information in our Parish Register.  You will be a member at the moment the information is recorded.  (2) Receive the Laying on of Hands for Confirmation by the bishop when he makes his Visitation to the parish.  Give your name to the Sue Hunter in the church office 417-881-03073 and you will be contacted about attendance at a Confirmation Class in preparation for the bishop’s visit. 

 

If you are not baptized and wish to be a member at St. James’:

 

For children each baptism is preceded by a Baptism Instruction Class for parents and Godparents.  In the case of adults there are a number of ways to proceed depending upon your circumstance.  In some cases only a visit with a member of the clergy staff would be necessary and in other cases perhaps a series of classes on “Becoming a Christian” would be helpful.  In still other cases a program called the Catechumenate would be desirable.  Contact a member of the clergy staff to initiate this discussion.    

 

St. James’ offers baptism several times each year.  Each baptism is preceded by a Baptism Instruction Class and rehearsal.  Typically, the Sacrament of Holy Baptism is in the context of the Sunday morning Eucharist so that the community is there to support each candidate and family, and to renew our own Baptismal Vows.  Other times may be arranged if necessary.

 

 

Upcoming Baptism Dates:

November 4, 2007 - All Saints’ Sunday

 

January 6, 2008 - Bishop’s Visitation

 

January 13, 2008 - Baptism of Our Lord

 

March 22, 2008 - Easter Vigil

 

May 11, 2008 - Day of Pentecost