As Episcopalians, we believe in and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ.
We believe that God loves you – no exceptions.
We honor God as we pray, participate in holy sacraments like Baptism and Holy Communion, and listen for God’s presence in our lives.
The Episcopal Church embraces a legacy of inclusion, as we aspire to exemplify God’s love towards every human being. People of all genders and sexual orientations serve as bishops, priests, and deacons, and laypeople and clergy work together, sharing responsibilities for leadership and governance.
The Episcopal Church is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. Regionally, we are part of the Diocese of El Camino Real, which includes most parishes from Santa Clara County, as well as all in Santa Cruz, San Benito, Monterey, and San Luis Obispo Counties.
core to our beliefs:
Book of Common Prayer
The Book of Common Prayer is a treasure chest full of devotional and teaching resources for individuals and congregations, but it is also the primary symbol of our unity. We, who are many and diverse, come together in Christ through our worship, and our common prayer.
The Bible
The Bible is our foundation, understood through tradition and reason, containing all things necessary for salvation. Our worship is filled with Scripture from beginning to end. Approximately 70% of the Book of Common Prayer comes directly from the Bible.
Baptismal Covenant
A mini-catechism used at baptisms and on Easter and other special occasions, the Baptismal Covenant opens with a question-and-answer version of the statement of faith that is the Apostles’ Creed and adds five questions regarding how we, as Christians, are called to live out our faith.
The Catechism
In the Book of Common Prayer, offered in a question-and-answer format, the Catechism helps teach the foundational truths of the Christian faith.
The Creeds
In the two foundational statements of faith—the Apostles’ Creed used at Baptism, and the Nicene Creed used at Communion—we join Christians throughout the ages in affirming our faith in the one God who created us, redeemed us, and sanctifies us.
The Sacraments
Besides Baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion), the church recognizes other spiritual markers in our journey of faith.
Found in the Book of Common Prayer, these sacramental rites include:
- Confirmation - the adult affirmation of our baptismal vows
- Reconciliation of a Penitent - private confession
- Matrimony - Christian marriage
- Holy Orders - ordination to deacon, priest, or bishop
- Unction - anointing with oil those who are sick or dying
To learn more about Saint Andrew’s, join us for one of our worship services or watch our latest sermon below.
