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A Bishop's Visitation by The Rev. Hartshorn Murphy Part of our Anglican polity, historically, is that the Diocese is the "basic unit of the Church." This somewhat antiquated language sought to signify that as Anglicans/Episcopalians; we were not "congregationalists" but rather that we belonged − and were in a sense accountable to − a "communion of churches." That sense of connection and affection has been strained of late and the practicality of being deeply rooted in a local community and context while being concerned about the larger world and Church has always been difficult. But the Bishop has always remained our central symbol of that connectedness. The Bishop, in his or her very person, is the person who symbolizes that dimly seen reality that we are "larger than ourselves." Historically and sacramentally, Bishops were the ones who presided at baptisms. As more and more churches were established, Bishops took on greater administrative responsibilities and wisely delegated the responsibility for Holy Baptism to local parish priests. The Church, in its wisdom, evolved the Sacrament of Confirmation to acknowledge that the vows and commitments made on our behalf when we were infants and small children, needed to be owned and acknowledged publicly before God and God's people by us as adults. Young adults who had reached the "age of reason" (about 12-14) were expected to make this public affirmation following a time of instruction and examination. Sadly, far too often, Confirmation today has a sense of being a rite of graduation (out of the church). A statistic I once heard was that 50% of those confirmed as young adults will leave the church within the ensuing year following their confirmation. I frankly don't believe that this matters much. Kids always have a need to rebel against the traditions of their parents and those who have left the church during their high school and college years, often find their way back, if they have indeed had a firm foundation, when they are adults with families of their own. But because of this reality, the Church more wisely still has created a Rite of Reaffirmation for those who having been confirmed earlier, want to re-commit to their baptism promises or those who have come to a more mature and deeper faith. Reaffirmation also is offered for those who may have drifted from the communion of the Church and now, having returned; want to acknowledge that reality in the presence of the Bishop. Why before the Bishop and not the parish priest? Because our baptismal vows are statements of commitment to Christ and to the Body of Christ, the Church, and not to a local parish or congregation and the Bishop is that person who embodies that vision. Those who wish to be baptized, to be confirmed or, having been confirmed, who may wish to reaffirm their baptismal vows in the presence of the Bishop, are asked to sign up on the patio on Sundays for a conversation with the Rector in preparation for these sacraments and rites. Bishop Talton's visit is Sunday, Sept. 21st at 10:30 a.m. Join us in welcoming him to our fellowship. Copyright © 2008 St. Augustine by-the-Sea
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