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What We Believe

Salvation in Jesus

As Episcopalians, we follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection bring salvation to the world. We believe that God loves you—no exceptions. The Episcopal Church embraces a legacy of inclusion, striving to embody God’s love for every human being. People of all genders and sexual orientations serve as clergy and lay leaders, and laypeople and clergy share responsibility for leadership and governance.

Book of Common Prayer

Our unity as the Body of Christ is most clearly expressed in how we worship. The Book of Common Prayer is both a resource for personal devotion and teaching and the primary expression of our shared worship. Though diverse, we come together as one in Christ through the prayers we share.

The Bible

The Bible is the foundation of our faith, understood through tradition and reason, and containing all things necessary for salvation. Scripture is central to our worship: in a Sunday service, we typically hear at least three readings from the Bible, and nearly 70% of the Book of Common Prayer is drawn directly from Scripture. We understand its meaning through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who leads the Church in faithful interpretation (BCP pp. 853–854). 

Baptismal Covenant 

“Do you reaffirm your renunciation of evil and renew your commitment to Jesus Christ?” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 292). 

 

At baptism, Easter, and other holy occasions, we renew our promises to follow Christ through the words of the Apostles’ Creed and a series of questions about living our faith. This covenant reminds us that baptism is both a gift and a lifelong call. 

The Catechism 

The catechism, found in the back of the Book of Common Prayer (pp. 845–862), presents the essentials of our faith in a simple question-and-answer format, offering a guide to Christian belief and practice. 

The Creeds 

“The Creeds are statements of our basic beliefs about God” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 851). 

 

The Apostles’ and Nicene Creeds are ancient statements of faith, uniting us with Christians across centuries and around the globe. In these words, we affirm belief in the one God who creates, redeems, and sustains us. 

The Sacraments 

Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace” (BCP p. 857). Along with Baptism and Eucharist, which Christ commanded, the Church recognizes five other sacramental rites that mark our journey of faith:

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  • Confirmation – the mature affirmation of baptismal vows (pp. 413–419)

  • Reconciliation of a Penitent – private confession and forgiveness (pp. 447–452)

  • Matrimony – Christian marriage (pp. 422–438)

  • Holy Orders – ordination as deacon, priest, or bishop (pp. 510–555)

  • Unction – anointing for healing of the sick or dying (pp. 453–467)

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