OES welcomes students and families from a wide variety of religious backgrounds and practices. We are not a parochial school, in that we are not the province of a parish. Nor are we a sectarian school, in that we embrace anyone and her or his beliefs. We thrive on diversity, but we are an Episcopal school, and as such, we seek to expose students to the Anglican tradition, while emphasizing the value and dignity of diverse individual religious practices and spiritual needs.

Each Division in the School has its own chaplain and required chapel program. In addition, there is instruction in religion (both Christianity and other world religions) at all levels, and most of this is required, except for some electives in the Upper School.

The Lower School Chaplain visits classrooms throughout the year. Beginning School students attend a bi-weekly gathering, and First through Fifth Graders attend chapel twice a week. Concepts are presented in developmentally appropriate ways at all levels. In Beginning School the concept of God, the idea of love and the belief that each person is a treasured and special individual are highlighted. In First through Third Grades, questioning becomes very important. Children are encouraged always to seek after truth with integrity and compassion. Fourth and Fifth Graders are encouraged to challenge ideas as we talk about images of God, central truths in different packages, and what it means to be a “person of faith.”

The year is divided according to the Episcopal Liturgical Calendar. Each season is presented and looked at according to tradition in the Episcopal Church (colors, words, songs) as well as how the theme is universal to all humans who are growing and learning. Stories, homilies, discussions, and all-classroom activities during each season reflect the central theme. Various Saint’s days or religious holidays from major world religions are often included.

In the Middle and Upper schools, students attend chapel once a week on campus, usually in the Parish of St. John the Baptist. Services are designed with the recognition that students represent a wide variety of faiths and are not necessarily Episcopalian or Christian. As an Episcopal School, OES honors equally the Anglican tradition and the need for students to start their own spiritual journey.

Chaplains are available to help students deepen their spiritual lives. Accepting that students come to the campus with a wide range of religious traditions and experiences, the chaplaincy seeks to support each student on his/her spiritual journey. In chapel, in confidential individual discussions, at celebrations, and times of difficulty the chaplain is available to members of the community to recognize the sacred in our midst.

The parish of St. John the Baptist shares the campus with OES, and the school uses the sanctuary for services.