Formation
Becoming a Christian may be as simple as receiving the Sacrament of Holy Baptism, but that is not the end of the journey. We believe in a full sacramental system of initiation, and we offer year-round instruction in the faith.
Instruction in the Faith
If you are interested in any of the following courses, please contact the office to arrange a meeting with the rector to discuss further details and find out when the next classes are scheduled.
St. Thomas 101
Membership Class
Every few months a ‘newcomers lunch’ is held to welcome those who are new to the parish and to review the duties of churchmanship. This brief course lays out expectations for instruction in the faith necessary for Baptism, Confirmation, and the general duties and expectations of attendance at worship, maintaining an active life of prayer, actively giving for the work of the church, and serving the church and the community. The course also gives a brief description of St. Thomas, the Diocese of Central Florida, and the wider Anglican Communion.
Basic Instruction in the Christian Faith
Baptismal Preparation
This six-session course is offered for sponsors and parents (godparents) as well as baptismal candidates who can speak for themselves, whether older children or adults. Godparents are encouraged to take the course with the candidates in the case of older children. The course reviews some of the key elements of the Christian faith: God (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), Humanity, the Church (the Body of Christ), and the Baptismal liturgy itself.
Christian Formation Classes
Further Formation in the Christian Faith
Throughout the year weekly courses in the Christian faith are offered to help deepen everyone’s walk with Christ. Topics have included what it means to be an episcopalian, things seen in church, ceremonies of the church, sacraments, church history, and the Book of Common Prayer.
Catechism Class
Confirmation Preparation
Confirmation is undertaken when it is considered age appropriate, anywhere from age 13 and up. In the Episcopal Church, it is normative that all baptized Christians sixteen or older be confirmed. Training is required, and confirmations may only be held when the bishop is available. This six week course examines key elements of the Book of Common Prayer including the Nicene Creed, Decalogue (ten commandments), Lord’s Prayer, the Catechism, and the Confirmation Liturgy itself.
This course is completed in between 6 to 8 sessions, depending on how many people are preparing and how long it takes to review questions.
Confirmation classes can be run even when the bishop has not yet been scheduled for a visit, and simply allowing for a refresher shortly before the bishop’s arrival, ensuring that everyone can be confirmed as soon as possible.
Coffee & Conversations
Every Sunday either between masses or after the summer mass, there is a social time in the Parish Hall called Coffee & Conversations where the rector or a guest will give a brief 10 minute presentation on some aspect of the Christian life. This is a casual form of Christian Education suitable for children and adults. It is welcome for all to attend, and you need not even attend mass to come join us for this time of fellowship and learning. The talks run about 10 minutes and the whole social time generally runs between 30 to 45 minutes.
Interested in receiving spiritual direction?
Please reach out to set up an appointment with the rector.
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