Sacraments at Grace Church
Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace. The two Great Sacraments are Baptisms and Eucharist(Holy Communion). The other five Sacraments are Confirmation, Ordination, Holy Matrimony, Reconciliation of the Penitent, and Healing/Unction. Baptism is the primary Sacrament of Christian initiation and is the starting place for the sacramental life.
Baptism
Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's Body the Church.
At Grace we baptize people of all ages. If you are interested in the Sacrament of Baptism for yourself or for your child we would love to hear from you.
For more information on baptisms and scheduling a baptism, Please Click Here.
Holy Eucharist
Holy Eucharist, also known as Holy Communion, the Lord’s Supper or the Mass is the Church’s principal act of worship in the Episcopal Church on Sundays and other Major Feasts. It is the church’s sacrifice of praise and thanksgiving through which we are united to Jesus offering of himself on the cross. In communion we receive by faith the Body and Blood of Jesus. All Baptized Christians are welcome to receive communion in the Episcopal Church.
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. At Grace we offer preparation for Confirmation, and the related rites of Reception and Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows each year for both youth and adults. Please speak to Father Neil if you have questions about this rite.
Weddings
Please contact the office and the clergy. No wedding date is confirmed until the clergy are informed and the fees are paid. Couples must arrange for premarital counseling with a clergy person. Information forms and additional information on weddings at Grace Church will be provided upon request.
Funerals and Memorials
Anyone may be buried from Grace Church. Please contact the office and clergy immediately. Arrangements may be made to hold the service at the Church or in a funeral home. The clergy will consult with the family to design an appropriate service. We also inter ashes in our Memorial Garden at the Church. Please contact the office if you are interested in this option.
Reconciliation of a Penitent
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. It is not required of any member of the Episcopal Church but is offered to meet particular pastoral needs. If you have questions about Reconciliation of a Penitent or would like to schedule a time to make a confession please contact Father Neil.
Unction
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. Unction is offered as part of the Wednesday healing Eucharist, at home Communion visits, and by request.
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. If you are interested in discerning for Holy Orders please speak with Father Neil.