Baptism & Other Sacraments

Notice during Pandemic:  With social distance limitations in effect, at this time Baptisms cannot be conducted in the church.  The Bishop of Easton has authorized clergy to allow Emergency Baptisms (p. 313 BCP) with the completion of the Rite including chrismation to be done in the church once these restrictions are lifted.  Please contact the Rector of  St. Peter's, the Rev. David Michaud, for further information: davidmichaud07@gmail.com.  No weddings may be scheduled until further notice. Funerals are permitted but limited to the same protocols as Sunday in-person worship, with the option of a livestream for others.  Contact the Rector, the Rev. David Michaud, about funeral details: davidmichaud07@gmail.com.  

Sacraments

Baptism

In the waters of baptism we are reminded that we belong to God and nothing can separate us from the love of God. We also find ourselves part of an extended family, one with Christians throughout the ages and across the world, what we call the “one, holy, catholic [meaning ‘universal’], and apostolic Church.” Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the Church. (Book of Common Prayer, p. 298).   Baptisms are especially appropriate at Easter Eve (March-April), the Feast of Pentecost (May-June), All Saints Day (Nov), the Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord (Jan) and on the occasion of a Bishop Visitation.  Adult Baptisms require completion of study as a catechumen.  If you are interested in having a baptism at St. Peter’s, please contact the church.

Confirmation, Receptions and Reaffirmation

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. Reception is bringing into the church body a person from a different historically linked church. Reaffirmation is personal gesture of explicitly affirming our baptismal covenant. Click here for information on Confirmation Classes.

Weddings

If you are interested in having your wedding at St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, click here for more information.

Funerals

We are available to assist your family in a worship service suitable for your family member.

Hospital and other visits

Pastoral visits at critical times in your life are available, contact the church.

 

What the Book of Common Prayer has to say about the Sacraments:

“Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace” - Book of Common Prayer, p. 857
Besides baptism and the Eucharist (Holy Communion), the church recognizes other spiritual markers in our journey of faith. These include:

  • Confirmation (the adult affirmation of our baptismal vows), pp. 413-419, Book of Common Prayer
  • Reconciliation of a Penitent (private confession), pp. 447-452, Book of Common Prayer
  • Matrimony (Christian marriage), pp. 422-438, Book of Common Prayer
  • Orders (ordination to deacon, priest, or bishop), pp. 510-555, Book of Common Prayer
  • Unction (anointing with oil those who are sick or dying) pp. 453-467, Book of Common Prayer

 

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