Pastorial Offices

Baptism


Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's body the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble." (Book of Common Prayer, page 298) Baptismal instruction is required for all parents and godparents of children to be baptized at Saint Paul's. This short, informal session is usually held on the Saturday prior to the day of baptism as an opportunity to learn more about this service and the meaning of the sacrament of Christian baptism. Godparents and parents are expected to be active Christians. Please call the church office if you are interested in having a child baptized. If you are an adult interested in baptism, please speak to one of the clergy. Baptisms are held throughout the year during Sunday morning worship. Baptismal dates are scheduled periodically.


Marriage


The Church holds Christian marriage to be life-long commitment between a man and a woman. The covenant established by God is meant for their mutual joy. Saint Paul's Church and its clergy take seriously the need for prayerful preparation for the sacrament of marriage. Any member of the clergy will be happy to speak with church members about marriage; a wedding date can be set only by the Rector, who assigns participating clergy. Weddings are not scheduled on Sundays nor during the Season of Lent and Holy Week, nor during several other brief periods. Persons desiring to be married should speak to the clergy at least six months prior to the date they have in mind for a wedding. Specific information for planning a wedding at Saint Paul's may be found here, or obtained from the church office.


Healing


Each Wednesday at noon in the Chapel Saint Paul's offers the Holy Eucharist with a Healing Service. The laying on of hands and anointing with oil is an ancient practice of the Church (James 5:13-15). This brief service is open to all persons.


Confirmation


From the Book of Common Prayer, page 412. In the course of their Christian development, those baptized at an early age are expected, when they are ready and have been duly prepared to make a mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism and to receive the laying on of hands by the bishop.

Confirmation is available for those persons who are sixteen years of age or older. Young people receive their confirmation instruction through the Journey to Adulthood program.  Adults participate in an Inquirer's Class. Confirmation is routinely scheduled for the Bishop's annual visitation. Please speak to a member of the clergy for more information.


Reconciliation


Also known as Confession, the Reconciliation of a Penitent is available to all persons. The old "rule" of confession is, "all may, none must, some should." The secrecy of a confession is morally absolute for the confessor. Confession may be heard by a priest at any time, but is most appropriate during the seasons of Advent and Lent. Please speak to a member of the clergy for more information.


Burial


The death or the approaching death of a member of the church should be reported as soon as possible to the clergy. Funeral arrangements are made in conjunction with the priest. Some people have found it helpful to their families to make prior arrangements for their funeral. Information on this, and on the burial of ashes in the churchyard, is available from church office.




Worship Services

Sunday
8:00 - Rite I
10:00 - Rite II

Beginning September 20
7:45 - Rite I
9:00 - Rite II
11:00 - Rite II

Wednesday
Noon - Rite II in Chapel


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