The Sacraments
The sacraments are “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace given unto us; ordained by Christ himself, as a means whereby we receive the same, and a pledge to assure us thereof,” (1928 BCP Catechism). One of the great joys in sharing communal life together as Christians is celebrating the key moments of life distinguished by the sacraments of the church. As you grow in faith and are led into a deeper spiritual commitment, you may find that it is time to avail yourself of the sacramental ministry of the church. We hope the following will be a helpful resource for you as you discern the next steps in your spiritual journey.
Baptism
“Holy Baptism is the sacrament by which God adopts us as his children and makes us members of Christ’s Body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God,” (BCP, 858)
. Baptism is the rite whereby we are initiated into the life of the Church.
Baptisms are available on Sundays throughout the year for infants and adults. Baptismal candidates and their sponsors (or, in the case of children, parents and godparents) are expected to participate in baptismal instruction in preparation for the sacrament. If you are interested in the sacrament of baptism please speak to the rector or contact the parish office.
Communion (also called Holy Eucharist)
“The Holy Eucharist is the sacrament commanded by Christ for the continual remembrance of his life, death, and resurrection, until his coming again,” (BCP, 859)
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All baptized Christians who are eligible to receive Communion in their churches and who recognize the sacraments as the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ (Real Presence) are eligible to receive the Sacrament in this parish.
First Communion instruction is offered to baptized children at around 6 years of age. This short preparation class is offered as needed in December of each year in anticipation of a first Communion being received at Christmas time.
Reconciliation
“Reconciliation of a Penitent, or Penance, is the rite in which those who repent of their sins may confess them to God in the presence of a priest, and receive the assurance of pardon and the grace of absolution,” (BCP, 861)
. Reconciliation, also called confession, can be helpful in one’s spiritual growth. When it comes to confession the old saying goes, “all may, none must, and some should”.
Special times of confession will be available during certain seasons of the church year. The clergy of Holy Trinity are available by appointment for pastoral counseling and to hear confessions throughout the year.
Confirmation
“Confirmation is the rite in which we express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop,” (BCP, 860)
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Confirmation preparation will be made available to teens and adults prior to a visitation from the Bishop. This instruction will cover important areas of Christian faith and practice and is intended to build a solid foundation in the Christian’s life. Please let the church office know if you are interested in being a part of the next confirmation class.
Marriage
“Holy Matrimony is Christian marriage, in which the woman and man 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,” (BCP, 861)
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We are pleased to be a part of your special day. Please review the information on this website regarding our wedding policy and contact the parish office to schedule your wedding with one of our clergy.
Anointing of the Sick
“Unction is the rite of anointing the sick with oil, or the laying on of hands, by which God’s grace is given for the healing of spirit, mind, and body,” (BCP, 861)
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Special healing services with anointing are offered on certain Sundays during the year. Arrangements can be made for pastoral care visitations with anointing through the parish office. In cases of emergency or extreme illness please contact one of our clergy or the parish office immediately.
Ordination
“Ordination is the rite in which God gives authority and the grace of the Holy Spirit to those being made bishops, priests, and deacons, through prayer and the laying on of hands by bishops,” (BCP, 860-1)
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A call to ordained ministry comes through mutual discernment of an individual along with the rector, parish, and diocese. Preparation for ministry in the Anglican tradition includes a period of discernment, theological education and ministerial formation (usually through a seminary), and extensive screening by diocesan officials. Those sensing a call to ordained life should schedule a meeting with the rector of this parish to begin the initial part of this process.