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Adult Catechumenate

Adults who are ready to make a mature commitment to Christ are encouraged to participate in our Adult Catechumante program, which is offered every spring, prior to Easter to prepare for the sacraments of baptism or conformation, or—if you’re already confirmed—to publicly reaffirm your faith in Jesus Christ. Learn more below, and contact Mthr. Barbara for more information. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

“Catechumenate” is the official name for a group of people who are preparing for baptism. At St. Francis in the Fields, we expand this definition to include anyone who is preparing for a rite related to baptism, including adult confirmation, reception, and reaffirmation of baptismal vows. 

Anyone considering making or renewing an adult commitment to Christ is invited and encouraged to participate. 

The Catechumenate is required preparation for any adult who is preparing for: 

  • Baptism: initiation by water into the Body of Christ. This is the rite for those who have never been baptized in any Christian tradition. 
  • Confirmation: an adult affirmation of earlier baptism, performed by a bishop. This is the rite for those who have already been baptized, but have not been confirmed in the Episcopal, Roman Catholic, or Eastern Orthodox Church. 
  • Reception: the formal reception into the Episcopal Church by a bishop for those who have already been confirmed in the Roman Catholic or Eastern Orthodox Church, but who wish to make the Episcopal Church their home. 
  • Reaffirmation: members of the Episcopal Church who have been baptized and confirmed, but who wish to publicly reaffirm their commitment to the baptismal promises. 

Our Catechumenate has three distinct stages: 

  • Inquiry: when any who are interested in learning more about our sacramental commitments make their interest known to the clergy. 
  • Catechesis: A six-week period that takes place during the season of Lent. During this time, catechumens study theology and scripture, pray together, and discern with each other as they prepare to publicly declare their commitment to Christ. The core of catechesis are the six weekly discussion sessions which occur during the Sunday school hour. In addition, catechumens participate regularly in the Sunday liturgy. 
  • Candidacy: a brief, one-week period which begins on Palm Sunday and ends on the Great Vigil of Easter. During this time, catechumens join the congregation in attending worship services during Holy Week.

Because Catechumens are preparing to make a serious sacramental commitment to Christ, proper preparation is a priority. Those preparing for baptism, confirmation, reception, or reaffirmation should make every effort to be at all classes. If you know that you will not be able to make all the classes please speak to Mthr. Barbara know which sessions — makeup classes will be available.

The most important thing to bring is a willing heart, inquiring mind, and questions about the Christian faith! In addition, you will need a Bible in which you are comfortable taking notes, a copy of the Book of Common Prayer, and The Apostles Creed by Ben Myers. If you need help acquiring any of the books, please contact Mthr. Barbara. 

If you were recently confirmed/received at St. Francis, but would like to take the class just to learn more about our faith, you are more than welcome to participate. If you would like to learn more about Confirmation/Reception before committing, please speak to Mthr. Barbara, who will be happy to answer any questions. 

St. Francis Catechumenate Inquiry