How is Redeemer like other Episcopal parishes? Like all Episcopal churches, we use The Book of Common Prayer and other supplemental liturgical materials to structure our worship. Our music comes from the Hymnal 1982 and other sources. The robes worn by the priests, the presence of an altar, the fact that we celebrate the Eucharist (communion) and that we read from the Bible -- these are additional elements that we share with others in our denomination.
How is Redeemer different from other Episcopal parishes? Redeemer has two elements of parish life that are distinctive. First is our governing structure. While the Vestry is our main governing body, all our ministries are under the auspices of one of four boards. These boards are a structure developed by our former rector Jim Hanisian. Another focus important to Redeemer is Holy Week. We consider this the most vital week in our church year and many of us attend services every day during this intensely spiritual week. (Holy Week is the week before Easter and includes Good Friday.)
What is the schedule of services each week? We offer Holy Eucharist on Sundays at 8 am, 10 am and 5 pm. There are two services at 10 am -- one in the main sanctuary and a less formal service in the Great Hall. A midweek Eucharist is held on Wednesdays at 7 pm.
When is there Church School and child care on Sunday? Church School for preschoolers runs from 10 am to 12 noon. Church School for all other ages through adults meets from after the 10 am services (about 11:15) until 12 noon. Child care is available for those under age 3 from 9:45 am until 12 noon.
Are the clergy considered ministers or priests? And how should I address them? Reverend? Father? Mr. or Ms.? In our tradition, ministers are all the people of the church: bishops, priests, deacons, and the laity. Those members of the ordained clergy most often associated with a parish such as Redeemer are called priests. We're an informal place, so feel free to skip using “father” or “mother”. First names between adults are completely appropriate. As for your children, have them do what they would with any other person in a leadership position. If you're not sure, ask the priest what he/she prefers.
Will I be able to take my time getting to know the church, or will I be asked to participate in activities right away? Our hope is that you will be welcomed and given the feeling that you belong, but not pressured to join a ministry. Although worship is the central focus of life at Redeemer, being a part of the community means getting involved at some level. Take your time, see what ministry calls you, and join in more fully when you're ready.
What does becoming a member of Redeemer mean? Church membership is defined a little differently at each church. If you are a member at Redeemer, it is expected that you will make a commitment of time (which includes regular attendance at worship), talent (in a ministry to which you feel called), and treasure (by making a financial pledge). These are the foundations of inclusion in our community.
Although membership in the Episcopal Church can be confusing because different parishes have different expectations, one common foundation is that the Episcopal Church considers that anyone who has been baptized – in any church or denomination – has been validly baptized. Baptism is the sacrament by which one renounces evil, accepts Jesus as Lord and is welcomed into the household of God.
As we grow in Christ, all baptized members are encouraged to make a mature public affirmation of faith in the sacrament of confirmation. Classes to prepare youth and adults for confirmation at the bishop's annual visit are held each year. If you were confirmed in the Roman Catholic or Orthodox tradition, you may wish to be received into the Episcopal Church. The classes can prepare you for that as well.
If you have been confirmed in the Episcopal Church, you can become a member in good standing at Redeemer by having your membership transferred from the parish where you were confirmed (or where your membership last resided). You may contact the church office and give us the name of your former parish and we will arrange for such a transfer.
Commitment, baptism, confirmation, transfer – whatever level of membership you are ready for, the Church of the Redeemer stands ready to support you in your life in Christ as a member of our community.
Why become a member of Redeemer? To share with others in the value of being a part of a dynamic, imperfect, faith filled community of joy.
If you would like to be placed on our mailing list or would like someone to contact you (by phone or email) to give you more information about our parish, please fill out one of our visitor information forms . You may also find information about membership by visiting our website at http://www.redeemer-cincy.org and clicking on Becoming a Member.
What does the Redeemer logo represent? Designed in 1998 by a group of parishioners, the logo represents our four boards: Education, Liturgy, Mission and Pastoral. The board system, unique to Redeemer, is central to our understanding of ministry. The Celtic design reflects the Celtic heritage of the Anglican tradition; the quadrant design represents the Cross.
