About Us
Who are Episcopalians?
We, as Episcopalians, seek to follow Jesus Christ through worship, prayer, service, and love for our neighbors. The Episcopal Church is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion, rooted in ancient Christian tradition while remaining open to thoughtful questions, diverse perspectives, and the movement of the Holy Spirit.
Our worship is centered on Scripture, prayer, and the sacraments, especially Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist. We believe God’s grace is freely offered to all and that every person is created in the image of God and worthy of dignity, compassion, and respect.
Episcopalians value a faith that brings together Scripture, Christian tradition, and reason. We welcome people wherever they are on their spiritual journey and encourage them to grow in faith within a loving community. At our best, we strive to be people of reconciliation, justice, generosity, and hope—loving God and seeking to make Christ’s love visible in the world.
OUR STORY
“St. Paul's Episcopal Church”
St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Blackfoot, Idaho, was established as a parish in 1891, during the early missionary expansion of the Episcopal Church in Idaho. It was part of the Mission of the Holy Innocents, one of eight Idaho missions organized under the pioneering leadership of Bishop Daniel S. Tuttle.
The historic church was designed by architect C. W. C. Van Winkle and built by local builder R. H. Hopkins for approximately $1,675. The building opened for public worship on May 5, 1892. Today, St. Paul’s remains one of Blackfoot’s oldest buildings and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Whether you're planning your first visit or getting involved in ministry, here are answers to the most common questions we receive.
What is the Episcopal Church?
The Episcopal Church is a Christian denomination rooted in the Anglican tradition. We follow Jesus Christ and seek to live his way of love. Our worship combines ancient Christian practices with thoughtful engagement with today’s world. Episcopalians value Scripture, tradition, reason, prayer, Holy Communion, service, and a welcoming community where questions and spiritual growth are encouraged.
What do Episcopalians believe?
Episcopalians believe in one God—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—and proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Our central beliefs are expressed in the Nicene and Apostles’ Creeds. We believe God loves all people and calls us to love our neighbors, seek justice, practice forgiveness, care for creation, and participate in God’s work of reconciliation.
Is the Episcopal Church Catholic or Protestant?
In many ways, it is both. The Episcopal Church emerged from the Church of England and is part of the worldwide Anglican Communion. We retain many ancient Catholic traditions, including bishops, priests, deacons, sacraments, liturgical worship, and weekly Eucharist, while also embracing important insights of the Reformation. You may hear Episcopalians describe this as a “via media,” or middle way.
What happens during an Episcopal worship service?
Most Sunday services include Scripture readings, a sermon, prayers, music, the Nicene Creed, and Holy Communion. Worship follows a pattern found in the Book of Common Prayer. Some congregations are traditional and others more contemporary. You may stand, sit, or kneel at different times, but visitors are welcome simply to participate in whatever way feels comfortable.
Can I receive Communion in an Episcopal Church?
The Episcopal Church welcomes all baptized Christians to receive Holy Communion. You do not need to be Episcopalian. If you are not baptized or do not wish to receive Communion, you are still warmly invited to come forward for a blessing. Local practices may vary slightly, so simply follow the congregation or ask an usher or clergy member for guidance.
Do Episcopalians believe the Bible?
Yes. Scripture is central to Episcopal worship, theology, and spiritual life. Several passages of the Bible are normally read aloud every Sunday. Episcopalians take Scripture seriously while recognizing that faithful Christians may sometimes interpret particular passages differently. We read the Bible prayerfully within the community of faith, drawing upon Christian tradition, scholarship, experience, and reason as we seek God's wisdom.
What is the Book of Common Prayer?
The Book of Common Prayer is the primary worship book of the Episcopal Church. It contains services for Holy Communion, Baptism, marriage, funerals, confirmation, daily prayer, and other occasions. It also includes prayers, Psalms, historical documents, and summaries of our faith. It helps Episcopalians pray together while connecting our worship with centuries of Christian tradition.
Are women and LGBTQ+ people welcome in the Episcopal Church?
Yes. Women serve throughout the Episcopal Church as bishops, priests, deacons, and lay leaders. LGBTQ+ people participate fully in the life and leadership of the Church, and the Episcopal Church provides marriage rites for same-sex couples. Individual congregations can differ in culture and perspective, but the wider Church seeks to respect the dignity of every human being.
Do I have to become an Episcopalian to attend?
No. You are welcome whether you are a lifelong Christian, returning to church after many years, exploring Christianity for the first time, coming from another tradition, uncertain about what you believe, or simply curious. There is no requirement to join. Come, worship, ask questions, meet people, and discover whether this community can become a spiritual home for you.
What makes the Episcopal Church different?
Episcopalians bring together ancient worship, sacramental spirituality, intellectual openness, and engagement with the world. We believe faith and questions can live together. Our tradition emphasizes Holy Communion, beautiful worship, Scripture, prayer, justice, reconciliation, and service. We do not expect everyone to think exactly alike. Instead, we gather around Jesus Christ and seek together to live his way of love.
Come and See | You are Welcome here
Leaders in Ministry
We are here to support you and help you grow in your faith. You are a valuable member of our community and we are grateful for your presence. Let us know how we can help you on your spiritual journey.
REV. HAYDIE LECORBEILLER
Priest Serving
STEVE ALLEN
Senior Warden
ANDREW
Junior Warden
COME SAY HI
“Aiden Allen”
Aiden brings youthful energy, dedication, and a deep sense of faith to our music ministry. A recent high school graduate, he now works as a welder here in Blackfoot, while faithfully serving our church Sunday after Sunday. His ministry continues a remarkable family legacy of faith and service spanning four generations. Through his music, commitment, and joyful presence, Aiden reminds us that the traditions of faith are not simply inherited—they are embraced, renewed, and carried forward by each new generation.