“All Are Welcome In This Place”

Sacraments

Our Anglican tradition recognizes sacraments as “outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.”
(The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857)

Baptism
Baptism is the incorporation of a person into the community of believers., and may be held at any of our three weekend worship services.  In baptism, significant vows are made before God. To help people understand their commitment, pre-baptismal instruction is required for those being baptized. In the case of children, parents must attend this class (Godparents are encouraged).  Call the church office for more information.

First Communion • This Bread, This Cup
Children 6 years and older will learn about Holy Communion with age-appropriate lessons. From the behind-the-scenes tour of the sanctuary to different activities, they will explore the worship service. A keepsake book is given to each child. A parent must attend the classes sharing this special landmark in their child’s life. Classes meet for 3 weeks during the 10 a.m. Sunday School time in the Spring semester.  Call the church office to register.

Confirmation, Reception and Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows
Today, Confirmation is defined as a “mature public affirmation” of faith. (Book of Common Prayer, p.412.) For those baptized as infants or young children, it serves to confirm the vows that were made at Baptism. In years past, Confirmation was perceived as a rite of passage. It was performed as one entered adolescence and it was often required before one could receive Holy Communion. Those baptized as adults are also expected to make a public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism in the presence of a bishop and receive the laying on of hands (unless they were baptized with laying on of hands by a bishop.) If you were baptized or confirmed in another tradition, you may be received into the Episcopal church by the laying on of hands by a bishop.  Call the church office for more details.

Holy Matrimony
Holy Matrimony is a Christian marriage, in which two people enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help fulfill their vows (BCP pg 861). To participate in the sacrament, it is necessary for the couple to participate in a pre-marital program.  Call the church office to schedule an appointment 

Holy Unction
The Book of James says “Is any one of you sick?  He should call the elders of the church to pray over him and anoint him with oil in the name of the Lord.” (James 5:14)  Holy Unction is the ministry of prayer, laying on of hands, and anointing with oil to those who are in need of God’s healing grace.  Those who are home-bound, hospitalized, or are experiencing any kind of illness are encouraged to call the church office so that our priest may come and pray with you.