What is an Episcopalian? Harold's story

Perhaps you’ve recently seen, here and there around the Cathedral campus and in the weekly bulletins, some notices announcing the 2010 sessions of “What is an Episcopalian?” and wondered to yourself, just what that was all about.
Well, it’s a series of forums, spaced usually one per week, which gives an overview of our Church: its history, its place in the Anglican Communion, its approach to scripture and spirituality, and how we see ourselves living our witness in the world. But it’s much more than that, too.

Now, as it happens, I was not baptized as a child and when I decided that baptism and confirmation in the Episcopal Church was probably right for me, I approached the Rev. Canon Allisyn Thomas about this and she told me about “What is an Episcopalian?” - recommending it as suitable for someone considering taking, you should pardon the expression, the plunge.

I think I expected something dry and clinical but what I got was something completely different: each week a new topic and always presented with humor, energy, reverence, and insight! Discussions of the Celtic roots of “Anglican Spirituality” struck deep chords with the part of me that reveres God’s world as a good and holy place. “The Book of Common Prayer” opened my eyes to how the Church has recaptured ancient Christian traditions in its modern liturgy. The “Instructed Eucharist” brought the elements of communion service in sharper focus and let me more fully appreciate it from the pews. Challenging concepts about “God and the Creeds” and “The Holy Scriptures” were laid out for discussion.

Meals were shared, friendships were made and I got to know my clergy better over the weeks. Never was I bored or made to doubt my place in this community. Instead I found myself looking eagerly forward to class each week and was frankly rather sad when the series ended just before Holy Week in 2009.

In the end, I emerged completely certain that I’d found my home. I think if you attend “What is an Episcopalian?” you might find the same thing. Please consider it.

-Harold Slatore


What is an Episcopalian? begins Weds, Jan 13. This fellowship and shared learning experience also serves as preparation for those interested in Baptism, Confirmation, Reception or for those who want to Reaffirm their commitment to ministry in Christ. All are always welcome. Register with the Rev. Canon Allisyn Thomas (619) 298-7261 x333 or thomasA@stpaulcathedral.org.