Wherever you are on your spiritual journey, consider attending this four-class series, facilitated by clergy and staff, where we explore the basics of the Christian faith through an Episcopal lens. Whether you are new to Saint Mark’s, or simply interested in sharing and learning more, you are welcome. 

Winter 2026 Inquirers' Class

FOUR SUNDAYS, STARTING JANUARY 4, 2026, 12:30–2 P.M., Leffler Living Room OR online via Zoom; registration is closed

This series is a hybrid offering, with in-person and Zoom options.

  • January 4, 2026: How We Worship (this class will meet in the cathedral nave)
  • January 11 2026: Images of God
  • February 1 2026: How We Read Scripture
  • February 8 2026: Prayer and Spiritual Practices
Please contact Canon Wendy Claire Barrie with questions: wbarrie@saintmarks.org

Upcoming Dates for Baptism, Confirmation, Reception and Reaffirmation

2026 Baptism Dates

  • Sunday, January 11, 2026 – The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord
  • Saturday, April 4, 2026 – The Great Vigil of Easter
  • Sunday, May 24, 2026 – The Feast of Pentecost
  • Sunday, November 1, 2026 – The Feast of All Saints

2026 Confirmation, Reception, Reaffirmation Dates

Forms

Questions about these forms may be directed to Canon Wendy Claire Barrie: wbarrie@saintmarks.org. 

 

Class Resources

Resources and references will be posted here following each class. 

WEEK 1: The Way We Worship | January 4, 2026 

 

WEEK 2: Images of God | January 11

 

WEEK 3: How We Read Scripture | February 1

  • If you've wondered about how the canon of scripture was formed, this is a helpful overview.
  • The Bible for Normal People is a great podcas t. In this episode, Catholic priest and Franciscan Richard Rohr takes a contemplative look at scripture.

WEEK 4: Prayer & Spiritual Practices | February 8

Definitions:

  • Baptism: This sacramental rite is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the church. God establishes an indissoluble bond with each person in Baptism, adopting us and making us members of the church and inheritors of the Kingdom of God [BCP, p. 298, 858].
  • Confirmation: The sacramental rite by which candidates confirm their baptismal promises by expressing “a mature commitment to Christ and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop” [BCP, p. 860].
  • Reception into the Episcopal Church: Baptized persons who have been members of another Christian denomination and wish to become affiliated with the Episcopal Church may make a public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their baptism in the presence of a bishop.
  • Reaffirmation: Those who have entered a new level of spiritual life or who are returning to church after a period of absence may reaffirm their baptismal vows in the presence of a bishop.

Useful Links

About Sponsors

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:

The Episcopal Church can use particular words that connect to how we worship, engage in spiritual practices, and express what we believe. These may seem intimidating at first glance. Below are some resources to help (asking clergy and staff is always welcome too or signing up for the next Inquirers' Class.
Welcome to a Life of Faith in the Episcopal Church by Megan Castellan
  • Provides frequently encountered vocabulary and overviews of worship, history and The Book of Common Prayer. Available here for loan from the Diocesan Resource Center.
Walk in Love: Episcopal Beliefs and Practices by Scott Gunn and Melody Wilson Shobe
  • Walks through the liturgical year and provides insights about the sacraments, daily prayer and Anglican teachings. Available here for loan from the Diocesan Resource Center.
The Ultimate Quest: A Geek's Guide to The Episcopal Church by Jordan Haynie Ware
  • Engages youth, young adults, seekers and proclaimed "geeks" with a humorous translation of Episcopal practices. Available here for loan from the Diocesan Resource Center.
The Episcopal Church Glossary of Terms
  • This online glossary contains a definition for many words that you may encounter in participating in the life of our Saint Mark's community.