A Sacramental Life
Baptism & Confirmation
The sacrament of Holy Baptism is union with Christ in his death and resurrection, the forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit. The 20th century saw a revival of interest in the biblical foundations of baptism and its place in the worship life and spiritual teaching of the first few centuries of the Church. In what some have called a “new Reformation”, we are seeing the continuation of this process and recovery of the full significance of baptism.
One result of this recovery is that the baptism of infants as a private ceremony attended only by the officiating priest and the parents, godparents, and family is no longer practiced in the Episcopal Church. Rather we celebrate the inclusion of new members into the body of Christ at our public worship when the larger Christian community is present. We follow the sacrament of baptism with Holy Communion.
We welcome adults and children for baptism. In the case of children too young to speak for themselves, it is important that the parents and godparents of the child meet on at least one occasion with a priest, to discuss the significance of baptism and their responsibility to nurture the child in the Christian faith. In the case of adults seeking baptism, we generally require a period of instruction and regular meetings with a priest or qualified lay director to prepare spiritually for this most important event. If you are interested in baptism for yourself or another, contact the Rector.
Confirmation is a related service, in which those baptized as infants make a mature reaffirmation of their baptismal faith and commitment. Laying on of hands by the Bishop, to confirm the person’s spiritual gifts for ministry in the succession of the first Apostles completes the rite. Confirmation is available for youth and adults who have completed a process of preparation that includes prayer, study, and service. For more information, contact the Rector.