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Homepage >> Visitors
Whether it is asked by a newly engaged couple seeking a place in which to be married, or by parents desiring baptism for their child, or by folks who have recently moved to Chicago, or by people new to the Episcopal Church, or even by individuals who have worshipped here for years, the question generally takes the same form: “How do I become a member of St. Chrysostom’s?” It is a query that identifies a desire for a deeper connection with our parish, and one that we take very seriously. When we become members of St. Chrysostom’s, we enter into a unique, and uniquely satisfying, relationship. We present ourselves for baptism, or if baptized, for confirmation, or if confirmed, for reaffirmation of our baptismal vows. If we have been active in another Episcopal parish, we request a Letter of Transfer to St. Chrysostom’s. Members of St. Chrysostom’s pledge themselves... To be faithful in worship--to worship on Sunday at St. Chrysostom’s. As we live our life together, we realize increasingly that we need one another’s presence at worship. Often when it is most difficult to attend, we find our worship to be the most valuable. To be dedicated in service--to support with time and effort the ministry of St. Chrysostom’s. Many of us serve outside the church, and we affirm these ministries for Christ in the home, the school, the community, and the workplace. Still, we acknowledge the validity of the New Testament vision of all baptized people channeling their energies through the ministry of the church. It is in giving that we receive; the two are inseparable. To be faithful in the financial support of the church--to pledge a portion of our income to the ministry of St. Chrysostom’s. The Episcopal Church teaches “tithing” rather than “contributing” because “contributing” suggests an amount of money while “tithing” indicates a proportion of our income. We ask one another to prayerfully consider what portion of our income we can return to God in thanksgiving for love and care given to us. Once again, at St. Chrysostom’s, we need you, we have much to give you, and we hope that we can grow deeper in our commitment to one another.
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