"I Will, With God’s Help" by the Rev. Dr. Amy Slaughter Myers
St. Francis Spiritual Sustenance : October 26, 2022 =====================================
We continue to read about baptism in Walk in Love: Episcopal Beliefs and Practices.
Chapter 3 addresses the baptismal covenant, based in part on the ancient Apostles' Creed, found on p. 304-5 of The Book of Common Prayer, and is the foundational expression of Christian faith and how it is lived out as individuals, as a community, each day. (You can also find it online at bcponline.org)
On November 6, 2022, St. Francis Episcopal Parish and Community Center will celebrate All Saints' Day at one inside service at 10:00 AM. All present in person or on-line will be invited to renew their own baptismal promises.
The first four questions address belief in each of the members of the Trinity. Following these questions, the covenant includes five questions regarding how we, as Christians, are called to live out our faith. Spend some time in prayer with these questions in advance of November 6. Ask God to shine a light on which of these promises require special attention in your life this year.
The Baptismal Covenant
Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Father? People: I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth. Celebrant: Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
People: I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
Celebrant: Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?
People: I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.
Celebrant: Will you continue in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers?
People: I will, with God’s help.
Celebrant: Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
People: I will, with God’s help.
Celebrant: Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?
People: I will, with God’s help.
Celebrant: Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?
People: I will, with God’s help.
Celebrant: Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?
People: I will, with God’s help.
