Worship & Sacraments

We are a liturgical church and sacramental church. What does that mean? Liturgy is the shape of our worship. We believe that the way we pray shows and shapes what we believe. Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual graces that God has revealed to the Church. The sacraments do not belong to the church, we are simply the custodians of them.

Baptism

Baptism is the first and most important Sacrament. In Baptism we are united with Christ in his death and resurrection, born into God’s family the Church, and receive forgiveness of sins and new life in the Holy Spirit. We are full members of the Church the moment we are baptized; newborn to 99+ years old. Episcopalians recognize anyone who has been baptized with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit as a member in full in the Holy Catholic (Universal) Church with an equal access to all rites of the Church, regardless of gender, race, sexual identity, or any other factors. You can only be baptized once, because once is all you need.

What do I need to do to be Baptized?

Ask. If you are at least 18 years old (or have a parent’s permission), you may be baptized at any service. If you know before coming to church that Sunday – let us know. Many people choose to invite friends and family. If the Spirit moves you on any Sunday, speak to the priest during the peace.

The Holy Eucharist

Sometimes called the Lord’s Supper, the Mass, or Holy Communion, the Holy Eucharist is a celebration of the sacrifice of Jesus Christ, once offered, for the sake of the whole world, and of Jesus’ Resurrection. Episcopalians, like most Christians (including Lutherans, Roman Catholics, Orthodox and many more) believe that we truly receive the Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ in the Eucharist under the form (the appearance) of bread and wine.

Can I receive?

We, along with St. Paul, believe the best judge of whether you should receive Communion or not is you. This is true even if you are or have been part of a church that will not allow you to receive for any reason. You know your heart and whether you are ready to receive Jesus in the Sacrament.

What should I do?

If you wish to receive come forward. Most people choose to receive both the Bread and the Wine, but you may choose to only receive one or the other. Simply cross your arms when the paten (plate) or chalice (cup) is offered to you if you do not want to receive the Bread or Wine. You can also come forward for a blessing (signify this by keeping your arms crossed) or remain in your seat. We do not judge.

Other Sacramental Rites

Speak to our priest about the other Sacramental Rites. They are Confirmation (A mature acceptance of the promises of Baptism), Healing, (Private) Confession, Ordination, and Holy Matrimony (Marriage). We offer equal access to marriage to same and different gender couples.

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