Baptism & Confirmation

Baptism FAQs

Do I have to be a church member?

Yes! For infant and child baptism, at least one parent should be an active member of a congregation or be in the process of coming into the life of a congregation. That kind of commitment indicates a willingness to raise a baptized child as a Christian within the Church. Historical and cultural affinity, or having been baptized as an Episcopalian oneself, are not sufficient justifications for baptizing a child at an age when they are incapable of making commitments for themselves.

I'm an adult. Can I be baptized?

Absolutely!

The Catechumenate is the program through which St. Andrew’s helps adults prepare for baptism, confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church.

Those who are formally reaffirming their baptismal vows are also invited to attend this journey of faith.

The Catechumenate includes our inquirers’ class, Discovery. Discovery takes place before baptism or reception into the Episcopal Church. The class includes group discussion, spiritual formation, worship, and fellowship.

Is a Sponsor or Godparent necessary?

Yes! Each child, teenager, or adult candidate for baptism must have at least one sponsor who is a faithful Christian. In the case of infants or younger children, at least one sponsor, called a godparent, will make the baptismal vows on behalf of the child, and therefore must be a Christian.

Will I be baptized with water?

In the Episcopal Church, baptism is the initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into full membership of the Church. Water is its essential visible sign, and the candidate is either immersed in it or has water poured over them. Our font at St. Andrew’s does not lend itself toward immersion, so we opt for pouring. Our Church recognizes all baptisms performed with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

How do I schedule a baptism?

Those desiring baptism for themselves or for their children are asked to complete the Baptism Registration Form.

After your form has been processed, you will receive an email to confirm the date and service you requested as well as the date of the Baptism Preparation Class.

Confirmation/Reception FAQs

What is Confirmation?

Confirmation is the rite in which we express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop (from “The Catechism,” Book of Common Prayer, 860).

I'm an adult. Can I be confirmed?

Absolutely!

The Catechumenate is the program through which St. Andrew’s helps adults prepare for baptism, confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church.

Those who are formally reaffirming their baptismal vows are also invited to attend this journey of faith.

The Catechumenate includes our inquirers’ class, Discovery. Discovery takes place before baptism and reception. The class includes group discussion, spiritual formation, worship, and fellowship.

 

When can I be confirmed or received?

Confirmation/Reception services are held in the fall and in the spring at an Episcopal church in the Kansas City area. The schedule is set by the bishop’s office.

How do I schedule a confirmation or reception?

Those desiring confirmation for themselves or for their children are asked to complete the Youth or Adult Confirmation Registration Form.

After your form has been processed, you will receive an email to confirm the date and service of confirmation as well as the dates of confirmation classes.

Baptism Dates

January 14, 2024
10:15 a.m.

Baptism prep class:
Dec. 10, 1-2 p.m.

March 30, 2024
Easter Vigil, 8 p.m.

Baptism prep class:
March 24, 1-2 p.m.

May 19, 2024
 10:15 a.m.

Baptism prep class:
Maay 5, 1-2 p.m.

August 4, 2024
10:15 a.m.

Baptism prep class:
July 28, 1-2 p.m.

November 3, 2024
10:15 a.m.

Baptism prep class:
October 27, 1-2 p.m.

Youth and Adult Confirmation

Youth Confirmation Retreat
Fall 2024
10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Discovery Class
Thursday, April 4
5:30-7:30 p.m. for six weeks

Youth and Adult Confirmation
Fall 2024
10:15 a.m. (during worship service)