Belonging

All human beings belong equally to God and are equally loved by God. No exceptions. The church seeks to represent God, to be a visible reminder of the Presence of God. Therefore, all people belong equally to the church; and all people are welcome to participate fully in everything St. Columba’s has to offer.

“All guests who present themselves are to be welcomed as Christ.” These words from the Rule of St. Benedict, form the basis of our welcome to all people. Such welcome is not ours. Rather it is the welcome that God extends to all.

We invite you to get to know us and let us get to know you.

“Wherever you are in your journey of faith, you are welcome at the Lord’s Table.” Similar words of welcome and invitation are offered almost every Sunday by one of the clergy of St. Columba’s. All are invited to come to the table, to participate fully in the sacrament of Holy Communion, which is also known as the Lord’s Supper, the Mass or Eucharist (from the Greek word meaning “thanksgiving”). We believe that we are all children of a loving God who welcomes us and accepts us and makes a place at the table for each of us.

Different Ways to Belong

Everyone is welcome to attend all services, activities and programmes of the church. Some prefer to participate without formally “joining” the church. Others choose to become part of the community in a more formal way.

Membership in the congregation of St. Columba’s can take any one or several forms, such as:

• simply filling up a welcome card and indicating a desire to join
• Holy Baptism (if you have never before been baptised)
• Confirmation or Reaffirmation of your Baptism

Members of the clergy are delighted to chat with anyone about what is right for each individual and to respond to any questions you might have about joining the congregation of St. Columba’s.