entry into the Christian life.
Baptism
Baptism involves a heartfelt desire to follow Christ, as a member of his living body, and is entered into through a covenant spoken before God in the presence of the community and witnesses, along with water being poured over the baptismal candidate’s head, anointing with oil and the giving of a candle. In the Anglican tradition, baptism is appropriate for people of all ages, including infants, however, in the case of infants, promises are made on their behalf by their parents and godparents. The shape of baptismal preparation is to be determined in conversation with the priest. Baptism is a holy and beautiful celebration taking place during a regular Sunday worship service, rather than privately, for the most part. It is a moment of celebration for the whole church family, as we promise to support and nurture the new and budding life of faith of the baptismal candidate and remember our own commitment to follow God, seeking and serving Christ in all persons.
Confirmation
Confirmation takes place during a special church service in which a person confirms the promises that were made when they were baptized. If you were baptized when you were a child, your parents and godparents made these promises on your behalf. As a young person or adult, you may be ready to affirm these promises for yourself and commit your life to following Jesus Christ.
The local bishop will lay their hands on your head and ask God’s Holy Spirit to give you the strength and commitment to live God’s way for the rest of your life. Confirmation happens at St. Stephen’s whenever we have an individual or a group of people who are wishing to make this commitment. It involves a series of preparation classes or meetings, to be decided in conversation with the priest.
Confirm, O Lord, your servant with your Holy Spirit. Amen.
celebrate
Weddings
The holy sacrament of Marriage can take place at St. Stephen’s, a warm and beautiful setting. Vows are made in the presence of God, the couple and witnesses, and others if desired. Before marriage, preparation classes are required, and meeting with the priest. Please be in touch with Amy for more information.
invite care
Anointing of the sick
Is any sick among you? let him call for the elders of the church; and let them pray over him, anointing him with oil in the name of the Lord. -James 5:14-16 These few verses and others invite us to care for those who are experiencing sickness or suffering in body, mind and spirit by anointing them with oil and praying for them. This is one of the ways that we can grow in awareness of the Holy Spirit working in and through us and experience God’s grace and healing. This anointing is available during our 10:30 Sunday service, as well as upon request.
gather and give thanks
Funerals & Memorial Services
Christian memorial services and funerals can provide an important opportunity to gather and give thanks for the life of a loved one who has died, committing them into the loving care of their heavenly Father. Services can be simple or more elaborate, depending on the wishes of the deceased and family and in harmony with our Anglican tradition. Please speak with Amy for more information or to talk about funeral planning.