Sacraments

Baptism is the sacrament of entrance into the Christian community. By it we become members of God's family and inheritors of his Kingdom, receiving the abiding presence of the Holy Spirit. All baptism are scheduled with the Rector. The Rector also gives pre-baptismal instruction to adults to be baptized, and to the parents and sponsors of infants. It is expected that the parents of infants to be baptized have a family connection with this Parish.

The Eucharist, or Holy Communion, is the Sacrament commended by Christ for His continual remembrance. It is the central act of worship of the Church, and of this Parish.

Who may receive Communion in the Episcopal Church? Visitors or newcomers to the parish sometimes ask this question. If you are a member of an Episcopal or Anglican parish anywhere you are, naturally, received as a communicant here. If not, there are four guidelines:

You must be a baptized person;
You must have been admitted to Communion in some congregation or denomination;
You should recognize, with us, that the Holy Communion is not just a memorial meal but a partaking of the sacramental Body and Blood of Christ;
You should be spiritually prepared, in your judgement, to receive this holy Sacrament.

If you have doubts or questions, please feel free to ask the Rector. In any case, be assured that no one is ever refused at the Communion rail.

Reconciliation of a Penitent, also called Confession, is the sacrament by which we are offered assurance of the forgiveness of sins. It is available by appointment with the clergy, and at other times as announced.

Anointing (Unction) with blessed oil is administered to those who are sick in body, mind or spirit, as sacramental sign of God's healing presence and power. The clergy visit in hospitals and homes to anoint and minister to the sick; in addition, this sacrament can be administered upon request, at the discretion of the priest.

Christian Marriage is lifelong union between a man and a woman who ask God's blessing and help to fulfill their vows. It is the policy at St. Mary's that at least one of the couple be a member or a family connection to the parish. Marriages are not celebrated in Advent or Lent. Pre-marital counseling is done by the clergy; this process can take several sessions. All weddings are scheduled at the discretion of the Rector. Permission of the Rector should be secured before any wedding plans are made.

Confirmation expresses a mature commitment to Christ, and is a sacrament of strengthening by the Holy Spirit. It is administered through the laying-on of hands by a bishop. Inquirer's Classes for adults and Confirmation Classes for young people will be offered preceding a visitation by the bishop.