Baptism
Baptism is one of the first steps in becoming a Christian, a follower of Jesus.
In Baptism, new Christians ask forgiveness for sins and promise to follow the teachings of Jesus. We are baptized with water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. From then on, we are "sealed by the Holy Spirit in Baptism, and marked as Christ's own forever."
The baptism process is free and open to anyone. If you are interested in being baptized or having your children baptized, please contact the church office.
Confirmation
Confirmation is “part two” of Baptism. In Confirmation, 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.
Confirmation classes are offered throughout the year or by appointment.
First Communion
In the Episcopal Church, all baptized Christians are welcome to receive Communion.
However, in some communities, it is traditional to have a ceremony of First Communion the first time a Christian receives the body and blood of Christ.
Reception
Reception is a rite for those who have already been confirmed in other apostolic churches, such as the Roman Catholic, Lutheran, or Orthodox churches.
Reception is a way to publically become an Anglican Christian and officially join the Episcopal Church.
New Episcopalians are received by the Bishop when he or she visits the congregation to perform Confirmations.
Marriage
If you’re getting married – congratulations!
St. Mary’s would be overjoyed to welcome your wedding guests on your special day.
Christian marriage is a lifelong union between two people. The couple makes their vows before God and the church, and they receive God’s blessing to help them fulfill these promises to each other.
​
St. Mary’s newly renovated church is beautiful, with seating for over 100 people and ample social space in the Parish Hall for a reception or gathering after the service. Marriage is equal and open to all people in the Episcopal Church. Those seeking marriage are required to attend a few sessions of counseling prior to the service.
Funerals
Burying the dead is an important part of the Christian spiritual life. We take this responsibility very seriously at St. Mary’s, and we want to help you and your loved ones plan and make decisions about the funeral. We can walk you through the service to choose the best fit and help you choose music and readings.
​
If you are grieving because of the loss of a loved one, please know that our community mourns with you and embraces you. You are always welcome to spend time in the church in prayer, meditation, or silence.
Confession
In the Episcopal Church, the belief about confession is - "all may, some should, none must."
​
When the priest hears your confession, he or she is helping you as a fellow Christian to "cast all your cares on God." The priest is not there to judge, but to offer absolution to those who sincerely repent and ask to have their hearts changed. In confession (also called reconciliation), we receive an assurance of God's free forgiveness and grace.
​
Confession is offered regularly during Lent and at all other times by appointment.
Healing
Every Sunday during Communion, anointing with holy oil and prayers for healing are offered in the Chapel.
​
St. Mary's also offers Communion and Anointing of the Sick to those who cannot come to church or leave home.
If you or someone you know is sick and would like a visit, an anointing blessing, or to be added to the prayer list, please contact the church office.
Prayer & Intercession
Every week at Holy Mass, and every day at Noonday Prayer, we lift up to God those on our prayer list. If you would like to add a name or intention to the list, please contact the church office.
​
If you would like to spend some quiet time in the church, please call or visit the church office, located in the Parish House next door. We will be happy to help you.