Sacraments
Holy Baptism - A Rite of Christian Initiation
Holy Baptism is traditionally celebrated at the Easter Vigil (Holy Saturday Night) and on the Feast of All Saints (November), The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus (January), and Pentecost (May/June). Preparation for baptism entails becoming a member of the parish and meeting with the Rector. Private or family baptisms are not encouraged as baptism is an act of the whole church in which the candidate makes a public commitment and the members renew their own baptismal covenant while promising to uphold the candidate in his/her new life in Christ. The two great sacraments given by Christ to his Church are Holy Baptism and the Holy Eucharist.
Please contact the Church Office for an application.
Confirmation, The Sacrament of Renewal
As those who are baptized mature in their faith, they may decide to be confirmed. There is a time of prayer, study and preparation, especially pertaining to the questions asked of the candidates in the examination and baptismal covenant. In this rite, the bishop lays hands on the individual, and prays for them as the commitment made at their Baptism is strengthened.
Confirmation is traditionally scheduled during the Easter season.
Confirmation Class For Junior High Students
Holy Matrimony - The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage
In
Holy Matrimony, God’s blessing is prayed upon the couple being
wed, they publicly make vows to one another, the witnessing congregation
promises to uphold this couple in their life together, and God joins
the couple in physical and spiritual union. Couples who plan to be married
at St. Aidan’s Church, are encouraged to attend worship services
regularly and receive pre-marital counseling, as part of their preparation
for the new life in marriage.
Burial of the Dead
The death of a parishioner should be reported to the minister of the parish as soon as possible. There is a litany at the time of death which may be prayed at the bedside by family and friends. Arrangements are then to be made for the funeral. The Episcopal liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy, finding its meaning in the resurrection while recognizing that the love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death.
Reconciliation of a Penitent/Confession
Reconciliation of a penitent (confession) is available any time by appointment and offered on Good Friday. Individuals have an opportunity through this rite to express their sorrow for sinning and desire to amend their lives. Typically the parishioner kneels at the rail while the priest sits on the other side. All that is shared is kept in strict confidence. Assurance by a priest of God’s forgiveness through absolution is given with the sign of the cross. The rite ends with peace restored, the priest saying, “God in peace, and pray for me, a sinner.” This sacrament opens the way for healing and restoration as we have all fallen short.
Sacrament of Healing
The anointing of the sick, a sacrament of healing, involves the laying on of hands, anointing with oil, and praying for physical and spiritual health. When someone is ill, the church and clergy should be notified. This rite is not only for the dying. We pray by name for those who suffer in body or spirit corporately in our Sunday worship.