Read more about Baptisms, Confirmation, Holy Communion, Anointing of the Sick & Burial, Confessions, Marriage and Ordination.

Baptism

Baptism is the ritual of initiation into Christ’s Church and through this ritual one is forever united to Christ and made a part of Christ’s body. The service consists of a profession of faith (the Apostle’s Creed) and vows of affirming Christ as Lord and Saviour and the renunciation of Satan and evil, followed by ritual washing with specially blessed water. In the case of infants being baptized, Godparents or sponsors make the profession of faith and vows on the child’s behalf. If you are interested in baptism, please contact Father Kevin Morris.

Confirmation or Reception

Confirmation is a service where individuals make a “mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism and to receive the laying on of hands by the bishop.” It is important that youth be of sufficient age to make a mature and adult commitment to their faith (15 or older) and have demonstrated that commitment by active participation in the worship life of the church. Confirmation classes will be prepared by Father Kevin on alternating years.

Individuals that have been previously Confirmed in a church in apostolic succession (such as the Roman Catholic or Orthodox Churches) may be received into the Episcopal Church by the bishop. Father Kevin will prepare individuals to be received into the Episcopal Church as needed.

Anyone interested in Confirmation or Reception should read the following guidelines: Confirmation Guidelines

Holy Communion

Our principal service of worship is the celebration of Holy Communion, or the Holy Eucharist, also known as “The Mass.” The service recalls our Lord’s last supper, wherein he took bread, blessed it and declared “this is my body,” and afterwards took a cup of wine, blessed it and declared “this is my blood.” The church believes that Christ’s body and blood are truly present in the bread and wine blessed at communion, and therefore it is shown the utmost respect and reverence. Holy Communion may be received by anyone who has been baptized (regardless of denomination). Communion may be received at the altar rail either standing or kneeling, and gluten-free hosts are available upon request. If you are unable to come forward for communion, please notify an usher and communion will be brought down to you.

A note about First Communion: While it is absolutely permissible for any child that has been baptized to receive Holy Communion, we do recognize that some parents wish for their children to receive instruction or preparation for communion before doing so. First Communion classes are offered on alternating years with confirmation classes. Please speak with Lisa Chiara if you are interested in having your child prepared for First Communion.

Anointing of the Sick and Burial

Anyone that is sick and suffering (either physically or mentally) may request an anointing by the priest and special prayers for strength and healing. In cases of extreme illness or imminent death, it is important that family members notify the priest or the parish as soon as possible, so that appropriate prayers can be said. If you would like a home or hospital visit, please contact Father Kevin Morris.

Funeral service information and fee schedule can be found here. Funeral Policies

Confession

The regular confession of sin is a vital component of a healthy spiritual life, and the forgiveness of sins was a task that Jesus Christ specifically committed to his followers. In the Episcopal Church, making a private confession to a priest is never required, it is however, frequently very beneficial. Confession may be made at any time by appointment with the priest, or during scheduled times during Holy Week.

Marriage

Marriage is the lifelong union of two individuals in a sacred covenant. In order for a marriage to be performed in our church, at least one of the individuals must be a baptized Christian, and both should be in regular church attendance (at least 3 months) before a wedding date is selected. Individuals that have been previously married and divorced, may be remarried in the Episcopal Church; however, the remarriage will need to be approved by the Bishop of the Diocese. It is expected that all couples seeking marriage will attend at least 3 sessions of premarital counseling with the rector (or, with permission, another priest or counselor of their choosing). Marriages are performed in our church for both same gender and opposite gender couples.

The fee schedule for marriage services and our wedding policies can be found here: Wedding Policies

Ordination

All Christians are called to spread the Gospel and work to build the Kingdom of God; however, some individuals are called to a deeper commitment to serving Christ and his church. When the church recognizes and confirms this calling, these individuals may be ordained by the church and entrusted with special roles in the worship of God and the leadership of his people. There are three orders of ordained ministry in the Episcopal Church: bishops, priests and deacons. Additionally, some individuals (whether ordained or not) are called to the religious life, and may join a community of monks or nuns. If you feel that you may be called either to ordained or religious life, or if you are just contemplating ways in which you can serve God more, please speak with Father Kevin.