Sacraments at St. Mary’s

The sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace. At St. Mary’s, we celebrate and support you in the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, Weddings, Reconciliation, and Funerals. Explore each sacrament below to learn more.

Holy Baptism

Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the Church. It is a lifelong commitment to follow Jesus Christ and live in the way of love. Baptism is appropriate for individuals of any age and is celebrated during specific feasts and seasons of the Church year.

  • Holy Baptism is the sacrament by which we are initiated into the Body of Christ, the Church. Through water and the Holy Spirit, Baptism signifies the washing away of sin and the beginning of a new life in Christ. It is a sacred covenant between God and the individual, marked by God’s unconditional love and grace. Baptism is not just a personal milestone but a communal celebration, as the congregation pledges to support the newly baptized in their spiritual journey. This sacrament is a once-in-a-lifetime event, reflecting the eternal nature of God’s promises. Whether for an infant, child, or adult, Baptism is a profound declaration of faith and belonging to the Christian community.

  • Preparation for Baptism involves both spiritual and practical steps. For infants and children, parents and godparents participate in instruction to understand the significance of Baptism and their role in nurturing the child’s faith. Adult candidates engage in a period of reflection and learning about the Christian life and the commitments they are making. At St. Mary’s, preparation typically includes meetings with the Rector, who provides guidance and answers questions about the sacrament. These sessions are designed to help candidates and their families fully embrace the meaning of Baptism and its implications for their daily lives. We encourage all who are considering Baptism to approach this preparation with an open heart and a willingness to grow in faith.

  • Baptisms at St. Mary’s are celebrated during specific times of the year, aligning with the Church’s liturgical calendar. These include major feast days such as the Baptism of Our Lord, Easter Vigil, Pentecost, and All Saints’ Day. To schedule a Baptism, please contact the parish office to speak with the Rector. They will help you choose an appropriate date, explain the process, and answer any questions you may have. While private Baptisms are reserved for emergencies, we joyfully celebrate this sacrament within the context of the Sunday Eucharist, emphasizing its communal nature. We look forward to walking with you through this sacred journey.

Confirmation

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 by a bishop. It is open to anyone aged 14 or older who has been baptized and is ready to affirm their faith.

  • Confirmation is a meaningful step in the journey of faith, where individuals affirm their baptismal vows and receive the strengthening gifts of the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by a bishop. At St. Mary’s, the process begins with a period of preparation, which includes instruction in the Christian faith, reflection on personal beliefs, and exploration of what it means to live as a disciple of Christ. This preparation often involves classes, discussions, and retreats designed to deepen understanding and foster spiritual growth. Confirmation is open to anyone aged 14 or older who has been baptized and is ready to make a mature commitment to their faith. Our clergy and mentors are here to guide candidates through this transformative experience.

  • Confirmation at St. Mary’s is typically celebrated during a special service with the bishop, often held in the fall or spring. Dates vary each year based on the bishop’s visitation schedule and the readiness of the candidates. If you or a loved one is interested in being confirmed, please contact the parish office for information about the next Confirmation service and the preparation process. We encourage all who feel called to this sacrament to join us in this joyful celebration of faith and commitment.

  • For those who have been confirmed in another Christian tradition but wish to join the Episcopal Church, the rite of Reception provides a formal way to be welcomed into our community. During this ceremony, the bishop recognizes your previous confirmation and invites you to live out your faith within the Episcopal tradition. Additionally, individuals who have already been confirmed may choose to reaffirm their faith as a way to renew their commitment to Christ and the Church. Both Reception and Reaffirmation are celebrated during the Confirmation service, offering a powerful opportunity to publicly declare your faith. If you are interested in either of these rites, please reach out to the parish office to learn more and begin the process.

Weddings

Congratulations on your engagement! At St. Mary’s, we celebrate weddings as a sacred covenant between two people, blessed by God and witnessed by the community. Whether you are a member of the parish or seeking to use our facilities, we are here to support you.

  • At St. Mary’s, we are delighted to celebrate the sacrament of Holy Matrimony with members of our parish community. As part of your wedding preparation, you will meet with the Rector for pre-marital counseling, which is designed to help you build a strong foundation for your life together. The wedding ceremony itself is a sacred liturgy, celebrated within the context of the Eucharist, and includes prayers, Scripture readings, and the exchange of vows. The parish community will support you throughout the process, from planning the service to preparing the church for your special day. Your wedding will be recorded in our historic parish register, marking your union as a blessed event in the life of our church.

  • St. Mary’s welcomes non-members to celebrate their wedding in our beautiful sanctuary or chapel. While these weddings are not part of the parish’s sacramental ministry, we are happy to provide our facilities for your ceremony. A donation to support the mission and upkeep of the church is requested in lieu of a fee. Our Parish Manager can assist you with scheduling and logistics, including access to the sanctuary, chapel, gardens, and reception spaces. Please note that all other aspects of the wedding, including the officiant, are arranged independently by the couple. We invite you to contact the parish office to discuss availability and details.

  • Planning a wedding at St. Mary’s is a collaborative process that reflects your unique love story while honoring the traditions of the Church. For parish members, the Rector will guide you through the selection of Scripture readings, prayers, and music, ensuring that your ceremony is both meaningful and personalized. Non-members are encouraged to work closely with their chosen officiant to plan a service that aligns with their vision. Our church can accommodate approximately 180 guests in the sanctuary and 36 guests in the chapel, with additional space available for receptions in our auditorium or gardens. Whether you are a member of the parish or visiting for the first time, we are committed to making your wedding day a sacred and memorable occasion.

Reconciliation

The sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession, is a gift of God’s grace for those seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal. It is available to all who desire it, and our clergy are here to provide guidance and absolution in a confidential and compassionate setting.

  • The sacrament of Reconciliation, also known as Confession, is a gift of God’s grace for those seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal. It is a sacred opportunity to confess sins, receive absolution, and experience the healing power of God’s love. At St. Mary’s, we believe that Reconciliation is a deeply personal and transformative encounter with Christ, who offers mercy and peace to all who come to Him with a contrite heart. This ministry is available to anyone who desires it, whether you are burdened by guilt, seeking clarity, or simply longing to draw closer to God. Our clergy are here to provide a compassionate and confidential space for you to receive this gift of grace.

  • Private confessions are available at St. Mary’s by appointment. To schedule a time for Reconciliation, please contact the parish office. Our clergy will work with you to find a convenient time and location, whether in the church, chapel, or another private setting. The sacrament is conducted with the utmost respect for your privacy and confidentiality. During the service, you will have the opportunity to confess your sins, receive counsel, and hear the words of absolution, which proclaim God’s forgiveness and love. If you are unsure about the process or have questions, our clergy are happy to guide you every step of the way.

  • Who can receive Reconciliation?
    The sacrament is available to all who seek God’s forgiveness, regardless of age or background.

    Is private confession required?
    No, private confession is not required for forgiveness. However, it can be a powerful way to experience God’s grace and receive spiritual guidance.

    What if I’m nervous about confessing my sins?
    Our clergy are here to offer compassion and support, not judgment. The sacrament is a safe space to be honest with God and yourself.

    Can I bring someone with me?
    While the sacrament is typically conducted one-on-one, you are welcome to bring a trusted friend or family member for support before or after the service.

    How often should I go to confession?
    There is no set rule. Some people come regularly, while others seek Reconciliation during significant moments in their spiritual journey.

    If you have additional questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the parish office. We are here to help you experience the peace and freedom that come from God’s forgiveness.

Funerals / Memorials

In times of loss, St. Mary’s is here to provide comfort, support, and a sacred space to honor your loved one. We offer funeral services that celebrate the life of the deceased and affirm the hope of resurrection in Christ.

  • At St. Mary’s, we are here to support you in planning a meaningful and dignified funeral or memorial service for your loved one. Whether you are a member of the parish or new to our community, our clergy will guide you through every step of the process. This includes selecting Scripture readings, hymns, and prayers that honor the life of the deceased and affirm our hope in the resurrection. Funerals at St. Mary’s are typically held in the church sanctuary, but arrangements can also be made for services in our chapel or other locations. We encourage you to contact the parish office as soon as possible to begin planning. Our clergy are available to provide pastoral care, practical advice, and assistance with arrangements, including burial or cremation.

  • The Episcopal Church offers a rich tradition of Scripture readings and hymns that provide comfort and hope during times of loss. Common readings include Psalm 23, John 14:1-6, and Romans 8:31-39, which remind us of God’s presence, love, and promise of eternal life. Hymns such as Amazing Grace, The King of Love My Shepherd Is, and For All the Saints are often chosen for their uplifting and consoling messages. Our clergy will work with you to select readings and music that reflect the life and faith of your loved one.

  • Losing a loved one is one of life’s most difficult experiences, and you do not have to face it alone. St. Mary’s offers a variety of resources to support you in your grief, including pastoral care, prayer, and connections to local support groups. Our clergy are available to meet with you individually, providing a compassionate space to share your feelings and find solace in God’s love. Additionally, we can recommend books, online resources, and community programs to help you navigate the grieving process. If you would like to speak with someone or learn more about our grief support offerings, please contact the parish office at (207) 781-3366 or email us at [email protected].

  • There are no required fees for holding a funeral or memorial service at St. Mary’s, as we believe these services are a ministry of the Church. However, voluntary donations are appreciated to support the work of the parish and cover expenses such as the organist, sexton, and reception costs. Suggested donations are as follows:

    • Organist: $200 (payable directly to the organist)

    • Sexton: $100 (payable directly to the sexton)

    • General donation to the parish: $200

    • Memorial reception: $100-250 (if provided by the parish)

    • Clergy honorarium: $100–250 (payable directly to the clergy)

    No one will ever be turned away due to financial constraints. If you have questions about fees or donations, please contact the parish office.

Have Questions?

If you have any questions about the sacraments or would like to schedule one, please contact our parish office at (207) 781-3366 or email us. Our clergy are here to guide you through every step of the process.