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Holy
Eucharist (also known as "Holy Communion" or "The
Mass") is the sacrament of bread and wine instituted by Christ
at the Last Supper. All baptized persons, regardless of denominational
affiliation, are welcomed to receive the bread and wine of the
Holy Eucharist at public worship services. Celebrations of
this sacrament follow the forms found in the 1979 Book of Common
Prayer.
There
is a 3-session preparation program during Lent, for parents who
wish to deepen their children's understanding of the Eucharist.
Children, parents, and parishioners are then invited to attend
an Agape Meal and Eucharist Service on Maundy Thursday which enhances
the meaning of the sacrament.
Baptism
is the sacrament of Christian initiation. Baptism is available
to any unbaptized adult seeking membership at St. Stephen's. Baptism
is also available for children and infants of members of the church.
Adults wishing to be baptized are expected to engage in a period
of study before baptism. For more information please click on
Baptism.
Confirmation
is the sacrament which marks a mature affirmation of faith.
Confirmation is available to youth (who have reached the age of
15) and adult members of the parish on an annual or bi-annual
basis. A special curriculum for middle school aged youth is offered
every other year as part of the regular Sunday School program.
Adults are expected to also engage in a period of study before
confirmationn as well (usually 6 weeks).
Confession
is the sacrament of reconciliation. The sacrament of reconciliation
is available to any Christian desiring it on an appointment basis.
Although private sacramental confessions are not required for
admission to worship or reception of communion within the Episcopal
Church, many individuals have found this sacrament a comfort during
times when their consciences were troubled. Individuals desiring
to have their confession heard should contact a member of the
clergy staff and make an appointment.
Holy
Matrimony is the sacrament of the union between husband and
wife. Weddings are performed for members of the church only. Marriage
is understood to be a sacrament entered into within the context
of Christian community and therefore requires active participation
in that community. Individuals interested in being
married should contact the office. For more information
click on Marriage
Policy, Guidelines,
and Marriage Application.
Healing is the sacrament of the sick involving the laying on of hands and application of
oil. The sacrament of healing is available to any person desiring it at our
Wednesday morning service or on an appointment basis. Individuals unable to attend
the Wednesday morning service who would like to receive the sacrament of healing should
contact a member of the clergy staff and make an appointment.
Burial of the Dead is a pastoral rather than sacramental service. Funeral services are provided to individuals needing such services. There are no membership requirements.
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