From time to time, the clergy are asked questions about “policy” on particular topics. For the most part, we handle various questions on an individual basis, using pastoral judgment and Scriptural principle. However, we have been asked often enough about the topics below that we have formalized responses.
In all cases, if you wish ask us to consider your situation, please feel free to call (215-396-1970) or email (info@toknowchrist.org) and ask for a pastor, briefly describing your situation. We will be glad to discuss your specific circumstances.
St. John’s typically only schedules or hosts weddings or funerals for members and regular attendees of St. John’s. Occasionally we may host events for others with whom we have an existing relationship, but schedules do not permit hosting private events for the general public.
If you wish ask us to consider your situation, please feel free to call (215-396-1970) or email the office (info@toknowchrist.org) and ask for a pastor, briefly describing your situation. We generally will be able to return your inquiry within 2-3 working days.
Baptism, being a sacrament ordained by Christ himself, is a serious matter of discipleship and discipline. If you do not regularly attend St. John’s and would like to be baptized or would like your child baptized, please be aware that we typically do not baptize without a period of discernment and instruction, as well as requiring weekly church attendance.
If you wish ask us to consider your situation, please feel free to call (215-396-1970) or email the office (info@toknowchrist.org) and ask for a pastor, briefly describing your situation. We generally will be able to return your inquiry within 2-3 working days.
The Lord’s Supper / Holy Communion / Eucharist
Sometimes we are asked “who may participate in the Lord’s Supper at St. John’s?” Note these three conditions:
- If you are a baptized believer, in good standing in any believing church of Christ in the world, then we say: “Our fellow Christians of other branches of Christ’s Church, and all who love our Divine Lord and Savior Jesus Christ in sincerity, are affectionately invited to the Lord’s Table.”
- If you are not a baptized Christian, or if you are under church discipline in your own church, you probably should not participate in the Lord’s Supper.
- If you are uncertain, please feel free to consult with a pastor, and we will be glad to discuss your situation.
Our desire is nothing less than to see “all who are weary and heavy-laden” come to Christ and find the rest He promises. As He himself says: “Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light” (Matt 11.28-30). In any event, you may feel free to come forward when the Lord’s Supper is served, cross your arms across your chest, and we will gladly pray with you at the rail or after the worship service.
An increasingly common question is whether unconfirmed people (of any age) may take the Lord’s Supper. We know that customs vary and have established a policy to accommodate those customs within the boundaries of pastoral wisdom, Anglican tradition and, of course, Biblical-theological concerns. You may download the policy packet for more data. The summary follows:
- That the person has been baptized,
- That the person is not under discipline in any part of Christ’s church for just cause,
- That in the case of a minor child who confesses their faith in an age-appropriate manner, the parents must agree with the minor’s participation in the Supper and at least one parent must be a baptized and practicing Christian, and,
- That in the case of one who regularly attends St. John’s, the person either intends to be confirmed or demonstrates that she or he has been received into the larger church of Christ by some analogous method elsewhere, as discerned with a pastor.
If you are contemplating this matter and especially if you are contemplating a change in your family practice, please see the rector.