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Becoming a Member of Saint Luke’s

Saint Luke’s Parish welcomes all people to visit our Parish and to embark on the process of becoming a Member, irrespective of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, economic circumstances, ethnicity or religious tradition. At the same time, we want to ensure that anyone considering membership makes a knowing, purposeful decision to join, and by joining, make a commitment to live in a growing relationship with God and with others in the family of God. Further, in accordance with Canon Law, this policy sets forth the additional requirements for becoming a voting member, that is, a Member having the right to vote and to hold office. Accordingly we have established the following requirements for becoming an adult Member or Voting member or Saint Luke’s Parish.

Eligibility
Any person who is baptized and who is an adult is eligible to become a Member. All baptized adults who wish to join Saint Luke’s are asked to follow the process described below, including former members of, Episcopalians from other churches and individuals from other religious traditions.

Membership Process
In order to give people the knowledge they need to make informed decisions, all potential members must attend a Newcomers Orientation Program, which is offered three times a year. The Orientation is lead by clergy and lay persons and will address basic questions about the Episcopal Church and our fundamental beliefs and practices as Episcopal Christians. It will also describe Saint Luke’s own history and mission priorities and articulate what we expect of members of the Parish.

After completion of the Orientation Program, newcomers will be invited to join the Parish by signing a statement of Intent to become a Member. People who are not ready to join will be assured that they may continue to visit as long as they like. Those who are ready will be asked to attend a Welcome Liturgy, in which they will stand with the congregation, participate in the liturgy of commitment and be welcomed by the congregation. Participation in this service is encouraged but not required. By attending the Orientation Program and signing the statement of intent to join, a person becomes a Member as of the date of the next Welcome Liturgy, whether or not they actually attends the service on that date.

What is Being a Member?
Upon becoming a Member, a person is listed in our Parish Directory, is entitled to be treated as a member for purposes of Parish School registration, and is expected to participate in the financial support of the Parish, by pledging or by other means.

Additional Requirements and Rights of Voting Members
A Member who is a Communicant in Good Standing is entitled to vote on all matters submitted to a vote of the Parish Members. A Communicant in Good Standing is a Member who faithfully attends services and contributes to the financial support of the Parish, and who works, prays and gives to spread the Kingdom of God.