Contours of the Christian Life

Living a journey of faith takes inquiry and practice to conform to Christ's way of life and be open to continual transformation. In this series, we’ll focus on what it means to deepen our faith, our practices, and our relationships as Episcopalians. Participants are invited to journey together through Lent and commit to seven formation sessions on Wednesday Evenings. Contours of the Christian Life provides further preparation for baptism, confirmation and reception into The Episcopal Church.

Next Series: February–April, 2026

Participants will first gather on Ash Wednesday, February 18, at 7 p.m. Presentations are then offered on a series of Wednesday evenings, 6:45–8:15 p.m. (following optional community dinner at 6 p.m.). Participation in the liturgies of the Triduum and Easter is expected (Thursday–Sunday, April 2–5).

Contours of the Christian Life culminates in the liturgy of Cathedral Day—which includes rites of Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation—on Saturday, April 25, 2026

Register today to participate by submitting this form.

Schedule for 2026

Optional Rite of Enrollment: Sunday, February 15, at morning services
First Gathering: Ash Wednesday, February 18, 2026 at 7 p.m.
Weekly Sessions: most Wednesdays through April 22, 6:45–8:15 p.m. (following optional community dinner at 6 p.m.)
- Topics of weekly sessions can be found below.
Holy Week: Participation in the liturgies of the Triduum and Easter is expected (Thursday–Sunday, April 2–5)
Culmination: The series concludes with the liturgy of Cathedral Day—including rites of Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation—on Saturday, April 25, 2026.

F.A.Q.

How is this class different from the Inquirers’ Class series?

The Inquirers’ Class series is a first step for those who are curious to learn more about Saint Mark’s and The Episcopal Church. Contours of the Christian Life builds on that foundation and provides an opportunity to continue the journey by going deeper into questions of faith. The approach of Contours of the Christian Life is inspired by ancient patterns of Christian formation going back to the early church. We encourage participation in both series if you are interested in further preparation for baptism, confirmation and reception.

How do I learn more?

Email Canon Wendy Barrie (wbarrie@saintmarks.org) if you have any questions.

If you haven’t already, consider participating in the Inquirers’ Class series prior to the series, offered each fall and winter.

Watch the video invitation from Dean Steve Thomason on this page.

How do I sign up?

Register for the next session. All are welcome to attend the Wednesday Cathedral Commons offerings, regardless of commitment to the Contours class.

Can I participate virtually?

We encourage in-person participation as possible to experience the fullness of the series in opportunities to share in a meal together. However, attending virtually is an option as needed.

What does it mean to be sponsored?

Sponsors accompany someone on their journey and in congregational life as they move toward baptism, confirmation or reception. Learn about others’ experiences in this handout, or watch the video below: