Putting Our Faith Into Action
We put our faith into action through ministry, not only for our benefit, but also to address the needs of those whom we may never meet. Often we partner with other agencies and organizations that have already established effective ways of reaching out and responding to specific needs in our community and abroad. Ministries come in all shapes and sizes and are driven predominately by dedicated lay people. Below gives a sample of the types of ministries we engage in at St. John the Baptist.
Sharing the Good News of God
Worship
Sunday morning worship services are at 8:00 and 10:00 (sung)
The third Sunday of the month features Rite III: a family-oriented service with contemporary music.
Morning prayer is said Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday morning prayer at 9:00.
Fellowship
Members and visitors gather after the morning services for fellowship in the narthex. Other gatherings include: Tuesday morning book club, a Friday morning “Examining Christianity” group, quarterly Locust & Wild Honey meals in homes, a summer family picnic, and an annual auction. In addition, the rector leads a parish tour every other year. Trips include Turkey (2016) to visit the ruins of the seven churches named in the book of Revelation and the upcoming trip to Great Britain (2018) to visit Anglican sites.
Growing as Christian Disciples
Church School Programs
The Nursery class (birth-4 years) introduces themes outlined in the lectionary-based curriculum, Feasting on the Word, using “tots activities” to reinforce the day’s theme.
Holy Innocents (PreK-grade 5) uses the Feasting on the Word multi-age curriculum to introduce biblical, historical, and character development teachings from the Sunday Gospel.
Early Christians (grades 6-8) restructured this year to support the children in their acolyting and liturgical service duties. In addition, youth serve as greeters, oblationers, and lectors. They also participate in community service opportunities.
Confirm not Conform (CnC) (grades 6-12) explores beliefs and questions from the youth themselves. An adapted four-month study with the Associate Rector prepares interested young people for Confirmation.
Adult Education Interested adults meet following the 10:00 Sunday worship service to explore Biblical themes and social ministries.
Responding to the Needs of the World
Social Ministries
Members of St John the Baptist are involved in a variety of social ministries including: William Temple House, Western Farm Workers, Potluck in the Park, Coffee Creek Correctional Institute, Purple Hats for newborns.
Congregational Care
Members provide emergency child care; a Caring Casseroles group provides food in emergency situations. Stephen Ministers provide one-to-one confidential, Christ-centered care to people who are hurting. A Healing Prayer Team is available during Sunday Communion.