St. Richard's is unique in many ways. We are a church in the Diocese of Central Florida. However, we will welcome Bishop Terry White of Kentucky on July 21 to offer the sacramental rite of confirmation as well as to reaffirm and receive those who have been confirmed in other denominations. Bishop White and Bishop Brewer of Central Florida have agreed that Bishop White will tend to the spiritual and sacramental needs of St. Richard's. This is because the clergy and vestry of St. Richard's support marriage equality as does Bishop White. Bishop Brewer believes marriage is only between one man and one woman a felt the need to grant us alternative pastoral oversight by a bishop more in line with our theology. 

And we are still part of the Diocese of Central Florida for  “temporal” issues (financially supporting the diocese, contributing to Canterbury Center, attending and participating in diocesan convention and other such meetings). 

Below you will find a description of the sacramental rite of Confirmation as well as Reaffirmation and Reception. If you would like to be confirmed, received or reaffirmed at the 10:30 a.m. service on July 21, please call the church office, 407-671-4211, or email Alison, rector@strichards.org, and let us know!

Confirmation: Our prayer book states, on page 412, “In the course of their Christian development, those baptized at an early age are expected…..to make a mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism and to receive the laying on of hands by the bishop.”  It is an opportunity to publicly state one’s commitment to the Lord and to be empowered for service to God’s Kingdom.  People from most Protestant denominations are confirmed into the Episcopal Church.

Reception: Traditionally, individuals who were confirmed in the Roman Catholic Church or in one of many Orthodox Churches are received into the fellowship of the Episcopal Church.  This is because those churches have maintained the historic episcopate through the laying-on-of-hands, as has the Anglican Communion.  And as a result of the agreement of common mission, members of the Lutheran Church are also received.  Those who choose to be received are recognized “…as a member of the one holy catholic and apostolic Church…”

Reaffirmation of Faith: Many who were baptized and/or confirmed some time ago and who have been growing in their faith commitment may wish to make a public statement to that effect.  Reaffirmation is suitable for all who need “refreshed” and they are prayed over by the bishop that they may be upheld “in the service of Christ and his kingdom.”