Life Events
In the Episcopal Church, we call holy life events sacraments. We acknowledge that God is present in every occasion of our lives. Some of these we mark together with special celebrations of worship to highlight the ways in which God is always at work throughout our life’s eventss. As Episcopalians, we believe that these observations reveal God's grace to us in new ways and call them sacramental.
Baptism
Welcoming any and all persons into new life in Christ is the ministry of Christian communities. Baptism is a sacrament where we recognize through the outward sign of water the inward grace of God joining us with the ministry of Christ's life, death, and resurrection. It is understood as full initiation into membership in the body of Christ and is best done in the presence of the full congregation.
St. Chirstopher’s members are welcome inquire with clergy for an upcoming baptism. After selecting a date, parents and sponsors (Godparents) are expected to participate in a preparatory class typically led by St. Christopher’s clergy. Adults seeking to be baptized are encouraged to contact the rector.
Confirmation, Reception & Reaffirmation
Confirmation, Reception, and Reaffirmation are rites where a mature commitment to Christ is welcomed by the Church through the laying on of hands by a bishop. Confirmation is for those wishing to affirm the commitments made for them at their baptism. Reception is for those previously confirmed in another Church who now find their ministry in the Episcopal Church. Reaffirmation is for those who desire to recommit themselves to the vows made at their baptism. All three require a period of guided preparation and self-examination which St. Christopher’s offers in accordance with the bishop’s calendar.
Marriage
Marriage is when two persons "enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows" (Book of Common Prayer, 861). The Episcopal Church recognizes marriage equality, and the sacrament of marriage is open to couples regardless of gender.
Burial
Burial is a holy rite of rememberance for the passing of a loved one in light of the ressurection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. It is a solemn occassion that is among our greatest privileges to celebrate in the life of a person and our Church.
