Sacraments and Rites of the Church
Holy Baptism: The sacrament of Holy Baptism is generally offered several times during the year on designated days. In certain circumstances, special arrangements may be made for baptisms on other dates. We always conduct baptisms in the presence of the congregation. While we normally practice infant baptism, we do provide the same rite for adults who wish to belong to the faith.
Confirmation: The Rite of Confirmation is offered either at the Bishop's annual visit, or at one of the regional Confirmation services in the diocese. In this rite, young and older adults affirm their baptismal vows and become adults in the faith. At the same time, people originally baptized and confirmed in other catholic traditions may be received into the Episcopal Church, and adults who have already been confirmed are given the opportunity to reaffirm their baptismal vows in the presence of the Bishop. We encourage you to address inquiries about Baptism, Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation to one of the parish priests well in advance of the desired time. We require the education and preparation of the individuals for these Rites, as we consider each of them to be significant transitions and not to be entered upon lightly.
Holy Matrimony: We strongly suggest that those wishing to be married contact one of the parish priests at least six months in advance of the desired date. This is necessary to allow time for the required pre-marital counseling and to ensure the availability of the church.
Ministration to the Sick: Prayers for those facing any illness (in body, mind, or spirit) or preparing for surgery, are always available, as is anointing with the Oil of the Sick, which is specially blessed by our Bishop for this purpose. If you would like prayers or anointing with oil (also called Unction), please contact the parish office or speak to one of the parish priests. Also, if you will be in the hospital or have a surgery scheduled, we would love to be with you to pray and support you; please contact the parish office to let us know your plans.
Communion for the Sick and Homebound: Specially trained Lay Eucharistic Visitors routinely take Holy Communion to the homes of parishioners who are unable to worship with us on the weekend. If you are homebound, sick, or in the hospital and would like to receive Communion, please speak with a member of the clergy to make arrangements for this.
Reconciliation of a Penitent: The Reconciliation of a Penitent , also called the Sacrament of Penance or Confession, is available for all who desire it. Confessions may be heard anytime and anywhere. Please contact the priest of your choice to make arrangements for this sacrament.
Christian Burial: Funerals obviously cannot be scheduled in advance; a priest is always available on short notice as needed. However, it is critical for the family to discuss details with a priest prior to making other arrangements since there are particular guidelines to be followed in Episcopal Churches. We can help you to minimize the stress at such a difficult time with counseling and forms and plans which you may complete and have ready long before a loved one dies. You may also choose to do this for yourself; not only will it spare your survivors some grief, it will ensure that your own wishes will be known and respected. Please contact the parish office to make arrangements.
