Baptism
We were buried therefore with (Jesus) by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life. Romans 6:4
About the Sacrament
Holy Baptism is full incorporation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble. (BCP page 298) In this sacrament “God adopts us as his children and makes us members of Christ’s Body, the Church, and inheritors of the Kingdom of God.” (BCP page 858)
Occasions for Holy Baptism
There are particular times throughout the year during which baptism is to be especially recommended, such as the Baptism of our Lord (January), Easter season (April and May), Pentecost Sunday (May or June), and All Saints’ Sunday (November). Additionally, baptisms can be conducted at any time other than during the seasons of Advent and Lent, unless for reasons of emergency.
Typically, baptisms are conducted during one of the Sunday services, but ‘private’ baptisms with family and friends may also be held at other times.
Special care should be taken in the selection of godparents, who need to have been baptized as well. Those chosen are meant to assist the parents in raising the one being baptized in the Christian Faith.
If interested in the Sacrament of Baptism at St. Matthew’s, please contact the church office.
Confirmation
About the Sacrament
Confirmation is the rite in which a Christian, having been baptized as an infant or child, now expresses a mature commitment to Christ and receives prayer and laying on of hands by the Bishop. It is required of those to be Confirmed that they are sufficiently instructed in the Christian faith as outlined in the Baptismal Covenant, and are ready to be faithful in the worship, prayer, service, and fellowship of the Church.
Confirmation of Adults
Adults wishing to make a mature commitment of faith have the opportunity to prepare for Confirmation by making their interest known to the Rector
Confirmation for Young People
Youth may seek preparation for Confirmation if they are in the 8th grade or older and feel ready to make a mature affirmation of their faith in Christ. It is expected that they have been baptized and are regular in attending worship, and have a sincere desire to grow in their understanding and practice of the faith.
Youth Confirmation Class
The class assumes both past and future participation in the worship and education programs of the parish, which, along with a Christian home environment, are the primary preparation for Confirmation. There are sessions with the clergy and mentors when the Bishop’s visit draws near.
Each youth will be expected to choose and complete 10 or more hours of service in the community. They will be expected to engage in regular prayer and scripture reading to build a personal devotional life, and memorize the 10 Commandments, the Apostle’s Creed, the 23rd Psalm, and several definitions from the Outline of the Faith.
Marriage
Marriage is the sacramental rite of the church in which two persons “enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows” (BCP, p. 861). The union is understood to be intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord (BCP, p. 423).
If you or a member of your family are planning to be married, please contact the Parish office as soon as possible to check calendar dates and to make arrangements with one of the clergy to discuss wedding details.
Participation in pre-marital counseling sessions with the clergy is required.
Christian Death and Burial
For I am sure that neither death nor life, nor angels nor rulers, nor things present nor things to come, nor powers, nor height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord. – Romans 8:38-39
About the Liturgy
The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds all its meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we, too, shall be raised. The liturgy, therefore, is characterized by joy. As we pray during the burial rite, “Through Jesus Christ our Lord; who rose victorious from the dead, and comforts us with the blessed hope of everlasting life. For to your faithful people, O Lord, life is changed, not ended; and when our mortal body lies in death, there is prepared for us a dwelling place eternal in the heavens.”
This joy, however, does not make human grief unchristian. The very love we have for each other in Christ brings deep sorrow when we are parted by death. Jesus himself wept at the grave of his friend, Lazarus. So, while we rejoice that one we love has entered into the nearer presence of our Lord, we sorrow in sympathy with those who mourn.” (Book of Common Prayer (BCP), page 507)
As Death Approaches
When possible, it is helpful to reach out to the priest as death draws near. The priest will come to administer Last Rites to that person, which involves Holy Communion, Unction (anointing with Holy Oil), and prayers commending our loved one into the embrace of our Risen Lord. This brings a meaningful sense of closure for the Christian departing this world, as well as for family and friends. You may also call the priest for anointing and prayers if a loved one has just died.
Prior to the Funeral
Prior to the funeral, it is appropriate that family members and the clergy meet together for prayers and to discuss the burial liturgy. Much of the information needed to plan the funeral service can be completed using this form.
A ‘viewing’, or time to receive people desiring to pay their respects, may be held at St. Matthew’s. Please note that once the funeral service is about to begin, the casket (if used) will be closed. Time and place may be announced through the funeral home and in any newspaper notice.
The Service
The service at the church will normally include the service for “The Burial of the Dead”, Rite I (BCP, pages 469-482) or Rite II (pages 491-498); the Holy Eucharist, beginning at the Offertory; and the Commendation (pages 482-484 or 499-500). The Committal (pages 484-487 or 501-503) takes place at the graveside.
Eulogies, or remembrances, are not a normal part of the Episcopal tradition. Their appropriate placement would be at the viewing or reception following the service. If an exception is desired, please mention this with the priest. If done in the church, the eulogy will take place before the service begins.
The burial rituals of fraternal orders, military organizations, or other such associations, if used, are to be held at some time and place prior to the Church’s burial service.
The Body
In the Episcopal Church, cremation is an acceptable form of Christian burial, and St. Matthew’s has a Memorial Garden on our grounds for the interment of ashes. The burial service may be held in the church with the body (casket or ashes) present or not present.
Fees
There are no fees to use the church for a funeral service. There are fees for musicians, and it is customary to give participating clergy an honorarium. This can be done through the family or funeral home. If desiring to use the parish hall for a reception, a donation would be appreciated.
Advance Preparation
It is wise to make preparation before death occurs, including:
- The selection of a burial space, or other directions for the body, such as donations or cremation.
- The making of a will. It is “the duty of Christian parents to make prudent provision for the well-being of their families, and of all persons to make wills, while they are in health, arranging for the disposal of their temporal goods, not neglecting, if they are able, to leave bequests for religious and charitable uses.” (BCP page 445)
The Episcopal Church Foundation has produced an excellent resource, Planning for the End of Life, which provides detailed information concerning many aspects to consider as we prepare what legacy we will leave our family and friends. From funeral planning, to finances, to medical directives, to documentation, the more we prayerfully consider and express these important details, the more we help those we love.
The Memorial Garden
Consecrated ground for the interment of cremated remains of loved ones has been located on the east side of the Parish Hall. Ashes are buried, without a container, in a one-foot-square plot within the Garden. Information about the costs and procedures to reserve a place in the Garden are available through the Parish Office.