Ministers and Ministry
Q. Who are the ministers of the Church?
A. The ministers of the Church are lay persons, bishops, priests, and deacons.

Q. What is the ministry of the laity?
A. The ministry of lay persons is to represent Christ and his Church; to bear witness to him wherever they may be; and, according to the gifts given them, to carry on Christ’s work of reconciliation in the world; and to take their place in the life, worship, and governance of the Church.

Q. What is the ministry of a priest or presbyter?
A. The ministry of a priest is to represent Christ and his Church, particularly as pastor to the people; to share with the bishop in the overseeing of the Church; to proclaim the Gospel; to administer the sacraments; and to bless and declare pardon in the name of God.

Q. What is the duty of all Christians?
A. The duty of all Christians is to follow Christ; to come together week by week for corporate worship; and to work, pray, and give for the spread of the kingdom of God.
(Book of Common Prayer, p. 855)

The Baptismal Covenant
All Christian ministry is grounded in The Baptismal Covenant.
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.
(Book of Common Prayer, p. 304)

Discernment Conversation
God calls us all to minister. At Epiphany, parishioners can determine through a discernment conversation which ministries God is calling them to do at this time in this place. Most Christian ministry takes place in the world, at work, with family, with friends, with strangers. Parish ministry is a training ground for doing ministry in the world.
Schedule a discernment conversation with the rector.
Schedule a discernment conversation with the lay associate.