“And let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds. Let us not neglect meeting together, as some have, but let us encourage one another…” — Hebrews 10:24–25 (BSB)
“Each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.” — 1 Peter 4:10 (BSB)
“It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to equip the saints for works of ministry and to build up the body of Christ…” — Ephesians 4:11–12 (BSB)
God has given each believer gifts, not for private use, but for the edification of the Church. I am called to use those gifts in love—to teach, encourage, help, pray, lead, or support, according to the Spirit’s leading. I participate by showing hospitality, caring for the sick or needy, mentoring others, forgiving offenses, and being present in both joy and sorrow.
Canon Dr. Joel Scandrett (Trinity School for Ministry) writes, “Christian community is not a club, but a covenant. To participate is to be formed and to form others—to love, to serve, to endure, and to grow together into Christ.”
Bishop Julian Dobbs (Diocese of the Living Word, ACNA) explains, “Participation is not optional for the Christian—it is obedience. The Church is not merely a place to go, but a people to whom I belong and for whom I bear responsibility.”
The 1662 Book of Common Prayer teaches participation through its liturgies of public worship, Holy Communion, Baptism, and Confirmation. The Daily Office is a communal rhythm of prayer and Scripture. In the Baptismal Covenant, the Church pledges mutual care, spiritual growth, and shared mission.
J.C. Ryle wrote, “Let no man imagine that he can be a healthy Christian while he neglects the fellowship of God’s people. It is in the Church that we are sharpened, strengthened, and sanctified.” (Practical Religion, 1878)
Archbishop Foley Beach (ACNA) has said, “We were not saved to be spectators but disciples. And disciples serve, grow, and worship in the life of the Church.”
Participating in Christian community glorifies Christ because it reflects His love, displays His unity, and builds up His Body for the sake of the world.
St. Cyprian of Carthage (c. 200–258 AD): “He who does not have the Church as his mother cannot have God as his Father. Participation in the Church is participation in salvation.” — On the Unity of the Church, 6
St. Basil the Great (c. 330–379 AD): “As one member cannot live apart from the body, so no Christian can flourish apart from the Church. Serve your brothers and sisters, and you serve Christ.” — Long Rules, 7
St. John Chrysostom (c. 347–407 AD): “Let each one bring his part to the body. Some may teach, others pray, others serve. Let none be idle—for in the Church, all have a share in the work of God.” — Homily on 1 Corinthians, 20
An Anglican Catechism (Expanded) offers over 350+ Scripture-based answers to the core truths of the Christian faith. Each entry includes biblical texts, theological insight, and reflections from historic and contemporary Anglican voices. Rooted in the classical tradition, it is designed for teaching, discipleship, and spiritual formation.
An Ancient Worship Movement invites readers into the rich, historic worship of the early Church rediscovered through the Anglican tradition. This book calls believers into a deeper, Spirit-filled encounter with Christ through timeless practices.
St. Thomas Church
PO Box 873
Abbotsford, BC,
V2T 7A2, Canada
If you are interested in starting a St. Thomas Church in your area and or ordination path fill the contact card form.
St. Thomas Church is a Church planting movement in ancient tradition.
