In a profound way, God was revealed in the person of Jesus. This is our best window to understand the Divine. What we see is that Jesus invited, welcomed, accepted, and forgave everyone. The same is true of God.

Anyone who reached out to Christ experienced unconditional love, a profound sense of hope, and a new sense of purpose. In fact, the only people Jesus criticized were the religious leaders who acted as if they were the only ones who were good enough to know God.

Following the example of our Savior, we resist rules that prevent people from knowing God. Instead, we strive to open a way for you to know the God who wants to be known.

What is required for membership?
If you come to church and get involved, you are considered a member. You belong because simply if you chose to belong. For many people, however, it is important to make that membership official. That is the point of Confirmation, or Reception for those who were Confirmed in another Christian denomination.

What is required for Baptism?
Jesus said, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit and teaching them.” (Matthew 28:19).

You will notice that the condition Christ gave about baptizing is “all the world”. Therefore, all that is needed to be baptized is the desire to be baptized or to have your child baptized.

Typically, baptisms are done as part of a normal gathering on a Sunday morning. Sometimes, however, it makes more sense to do a smaller, private baptism. Contact the Church office for more information. We can plan a baptism with very short notice.

What is required for funerals?
Simply call the church office to work out the details.

What is required for Weddings?
The Church exists to celebrate the important moments in life. Baptisms are a way to celebrate birth. Funerals are a way of celebrating life on earth and life in heaven. Likewise, weddings are a way of celebrating the choosing of our most important relationship. There are three official requirements: 1) It is a lawful marriage, 2) you have a reasonable chance at a marriage of mutual support and joy, and 3) the couple is sober when making the commitment. Contact the Church office for more information.

But, what about fees?
You have noticed that there has been no mention of money. That is because St. Barnabas exists through unsolicited generous giving. Most of this support comes from our members. You may choose to give a donation, but a donation is not required, for anything.

The one exception: If you would like the organ to play at a private baptism, a wedding, or a funeral. Since music is not required, if you would like it, you will need to cover the professional fee of the organist.