Introduction
Our Anglican tradition recognizes sacraments as “outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857) Holy Baptism and the Eucharist (or Holy Communion) are the two great sacraments given by Christ to his Church.In the case of Baptism, the outward and visible sign is water, in which the person is baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; the inward and spiritual grace is union with Christ in his death and resurrection, birth into God’s family the Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit. In the case of the Eucharist, the outward and visible sign is bread and wine, given and received according to Christ’s command. The inward and spiritual grace is the Body and Blood of Christ given to his people, and received by faith.
In addition to these two, there are other spiritual markers in our journey of faith that can serve as means of grace. These include:
In addition to these two, there are other spiritual markers in our journey of faith that can serve as means of grace. These include:
- Confirmation: the adult affirmation of our baptismal vows
- Reconciliation of a Penitent: private confession
- Matrimony: Christian marriage
- Orders: ordination to the diaconate, priesthood, or episcopacy
- Unction: anointing those who are sick or dying with holy oil
SACRAMENTS & SACRAMENTAL RITES AT ST. PETER'S
If you are interested in the rites of baptism, marriage, or funeral and burial, the immediate task is to get in touch with the Parish Coordinator, Susan Marshall, in the church office at (973) 334-4429 or email us so we can discuss and begin preparations [email protected]
Baptisms take place as part of the Sunday morning liturgy in the presence of the congregation, as baptism brings a person into full membership in the Church and members here vow to support the baptismal candidate in his/her life in Christ. Baptisms are most often celebrated on principle feast days in the Church Year at our 10:15 am liturgy celebration when everyone who is present renews their own baptismal vows. For an infant, the priest would meet with the parents and god-parents to discuss the vows they will take on behalf of the child and to review the service. For older children or adults who desire to be baptized, a course of preparation and instruction would be planned with the clergy.
At. St. Peters’ Communion is offered as “Gifts of God for the people of God” who wish to receive the sacrament as a way of coming to know Jesus Christ and as a step on that journey. We offer both elements -- bread and wine -- and you are welcome to receive one or both.
If you are a baptized Christian who has been confirmed by a bishop in either the Roman Catholic Church or the ELCA and wish to be Received formally into the Episcopal Church, please contact the parish office. Reception takes place at a service when the Bishop is present. Confirmation preparation is provided each year for adults and youth 8th grade and above; the Bishop is officiant for the sacramental rite of Confirmation also. Please contact the parish office to learn more.
Weddings should be arranged as far in advance as possible by contacting the office. Formerly married persons must have the permission of the Bishop of the Diocese to be married in the Episcopal Church. Clergy will have a series of meetings with the couple or refer them to a professional counselor. The parish’s Wedding Committee sets policies regarding flowers and coordinates the rehearsal. There are policies for use of the church and the design of the Episcopal ceremony/music for the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Our Parish Administrator can assist you.
Funeral/Burials: St. Peter’s clergy, following the liturgy of the Book of Common Prayer, are available to assist your family in planning a celebration of the lives of the departed, which can be arranged through the office.
For additional information on Sacraments, please contact us at [email protected]
At. St. Peters’ Communion is offered as “Gifts of God for the people of God” who wish to receive the sacrament as a way of coming to know Jesus Christ and as a step on that journey. We offer both elements -- bread and wine -- and you are welcome to receive one or both.
If you are a baptized Christian who has been confirmed by a bishop in either the Roman Catholic Church or the ELCA and wish to be Received formally into the Episcopal Church, please contact the parish office. Reception takes place at a service when the Bishop is present. Confirmation preparation is provided each year for adults and youth 8th grade and above; the Bishop is officiant for the sacramental rite of Confirmation also. Please contact the parish office to learn more.
Weddings should be arranged as far in advance as possible by contacting the office. Formerly married persons must have the permission of the Bishop of the Diocese to be married in the Episcopal Church. Clergy will have a series of meetings with the couple or refer them to a professional counselor. The parish’s Wedding Committee sets policies regarding flowers and coordinates the rehearsal. There are policies for use of the church and the design of the Episcopal ceremony/music for the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. Our Parish Administrator can assist you.
Funeral/Burials: St. Peter’s clergy, following the liturgy of the Book of Common Prayer, are available to assist your family in planning a celebration of the lives of the departed, which can be arranged through the office.
For additional information on Sacraments, please contact us at [email protected]