What We Believe

As Episcopalians, we believe in and follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, whose life, death, and resurrection saved the world.  

We believe that God loves you – no exceptions.   

Inclusive Church for Cincinnati

We have a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being; women and men serve as bishops, priests, and deacons in our church. Laypeople and clergy cooperate as leaders at all levels of our church. Leadership is a gift from God and can be expressed by all people in our church, regardless of gender, sexual identity or orientation. We are an affirming and LGBTQ+ friendly church.

Who is Barnabas

We are named after Barnabas, known in the Book of Acts, as a colleague of the Apostle Paul and whose name means “Son of Encouragement.” Barnabas is known for his generosity and his friendship. He welcomed people into the early church and courageously stood up for others. He was full of the Holy Spirit and a person of deep faith.

In this same spirit, we at St. Barnabas are committed to loving and accepting all people. We strive to create God’s beloved community, a place where we can support one another as friends and generously share what we have with those in need.

What Episcopalians Believe

The 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, 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. 

“Blessed Lord, who caused all holy Scriptures to be written for our learning: Grant us so to hear them, read, mark, learn, and inwardly digest them” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 236).  

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.  

“Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 305). 

The Catechism

Offered in a question-and-answer format, the catechism found in the back of the Book of Common Prayer (pp. 845-862) helps teach the foundational truths of the Christian faith. 

The Creeds

“The Creeds are statements of our basic beliefs about God” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 851). 

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

“Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 857). 

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 include: 

  • Confirmation (the adult affirmation of our baptismal vows), pp. 413-419  

  • Reconciliation of a Penitent (private confession), pp. 447-452 

  • Matrimony (Christian marriage), pp. 422-438 

  • Orders (ordination to deacon, priest, or bishop), pp. 510-555 

  • Unction (anointing with oil those who are sick or dying) pp. 453-467  

To learn more about the Episcopal Church please visit - https://www.episcopalchurch.org/.

Our Values

  • We believe our primary purpose is to invite people to grow in their relationship with God. Together, we create opportunities for worship, learning, and building friendships that support us in our faith journey.

    St. Barnabas is part of the Episcopal Church, a branch of the Anglican Communion, a family of churches around the world. We are grounded in a shared practice of common prayer. Learn more about the Episcopal Church.

  • All are welcome – we believe God loves us all, no exceptions! We have a legacy of inclusion, aspiring to tell and exemplify God’s love for every human being.

  • We are courageous in faith. We believe that God is always inviting us to new opportunities and so we are a people willing to take risks, try new things, and remain curious and open to God’s guidance in all that we do. We believe that our faith compels us to action and a life of service, offering what we have to bring healing and hope in the world.

  • As a community of encouragement, we celebrate the diverse gifts of our members. We believe that ministry is the work of all God’s people. We welcome everyone to share in the leadership of our church and we value teamwork as we organize our church’s ministries. We are a church that likes to roll up our sleeves and build and create things together.