Christian Life in the Diocese

Living a Christian Life as an Episcopalian

This section of the site includes core information about living a Christian life as an Episcopalian. Some of this is specifically designed for Church members; we hope that other parts may also be helpful to interested inquirers.

The Three Essentials

We believe that to be complete, a Christian life must include three elements, and that all that we do flows from them. These vital elements are:

  • Worship

    Episcopal worship is liturgical, meaning it follows set forms found in the Book of Common Prayer and involves active participation from all present. The Diocesan Liturgical Commission provides guidance on the conduct of services. You can find their latest recommendations here. For a helpful overview of Episcopal worship, visit the Episcopal Church’s “What to Expect” page. Learn more about Weddings, Funerals and Baptisms.

  • Nurture

    We believe that Holy Baptism marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith. Nurturing that growth involves both education and a supportive community. The Diocese supports this work through the Commission for Christian Formation, helping parishes guide children and adults in deepening their faith.

  • Mission

    For Episcopalians, mission means living out God’s love through action. We believe all people—lay and ordained—are called to ministry in daily life. Our mission is expressed through parish-based outreach, hospital and prison ministries, and global partnerships, such as the Carpenter’s Kids program in Tanzania. Diocesan groups such as the Social Concerns Commission, Antiracism Committee, and Economic Justice Committee help guide this work. Episcopal Charities, our outreach arm, supports grassroots programs across the region. In all we do, we strive to love God by loving our neighbors, boldly, practically, and without judgment.

Get Involved

Education & Formation

Explore a wide range of learning opportunities, events, and resources designed to deepen your faith and support lifelong spiritual formation.

About Formation

Community Support

Discover our welcoming ministries that provide community, spiritual support, and resources for every stage of your faith journey.

Community Support

College for Congregational Development

CCD is a spiritually rooted training program for teams of lay and clergy leaders who want to grow their leadership skills and cultivate health and vitality in their congregations.

About CCD

Call to Ministry

Are you feeling called to serve? We have pathways to lay and ordained ministry to use your gifts in the life of the Church.

Call to Ministry

Terminology

We strive to make our content clear and accessible; however, some ecclesiastical terms are unavoidable. If you come across a word or phrase you’re unfamiliar with, please visit our glossary of terms. If the term isn’t listed, feel free to email us. We’re so immersed in this language that we sometimes forget what’s not plain English, and we appreciate your help in making our site more welcoming to all.