Our Sacraments
Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.
The Book of Common Prayer
Holy Baptism
Holy Baptism is the sacrament by which we are adopted as God’s children and are made members of Christ's Body and members of the Church.
Holy Baptism is normally administered during regular worship services. It is expected that Baptism will be planned for those who are faithful communicants of this parish, who are in regular attendance and participate in the life of Grace Church.
Although infant baptism is the primary practice of this Church, it is by no means the only practice. Older candidates who wish to receive the Sacrament of Holy Baptism are invited and encouraged to open discussion and preparation with the Rector.
Learn more about our Baptismal Covenant here:
Holy Eucharist
Holy Eucharist is the sacrament by which we receive the body and blood of Christ in consecrated bread and wine for the forgiveness of our sins and the strengthening of our union with Christ and one another.
The Book of Common Prayer reminds us that before we come to take Communion together, “we should examine our lives, repent of our sins, and be in love and charity with all people” (Book of Common Prayer, p. 859).
All are welcome to receive Holy Communion at Grace Church. Gluten free wafers and grape juice are available upon request if you desire an alternative to traditional wine and wafers.
The Service of Holy Eucharist is celebrated every Sunday and at our Community Prayer Service on the second Saturday of each month.
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" (Book of Common Prayer, p. 861).
Pre-marital counseling is necessary for weddings, and an appointment with the Rector must be met before a commitment to a wedding can be scheduled. The marriage must be approved by the Rector following the required pre-marital counseling sessions. Rules concerning remarriage following divorce are according to the Canons of the Diocese of Virginia and may require the permission of the Bishop. The marriage service will be in compliance with the doctrine and worship of the Episcopal Church.
The use of the church for a marriage ceremony is reserved for Grace Church members and their families. Please contact the Rector directly to schedule a meeting to discuss your plans for marriage.
Confirmation
The Rite of Confirmation is administered generally once a year to those who wish to make a mature affirmation of their faith and commitment to Christ and to the promises made at Baptism.
We receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by the Bishop. It is required of those to be confirmed that they have been baptized, are sufficiently instructed in the Christian faith and are ready to affirm the confession of Jesus Christ as Savior and Lord. Classes, led by the Rector, are offered to the candidates for confirmation.
If you have been confirmed in another tradition, you may wish to be received into the Episcopal Church.
Confession
The Rite of Confession is the sacrament of letting go of the destructive actions in our past that are holding us down. There is no mandate for this sacrament.
Here, the old Anglican adage applies: All can, some should, none must. However, the sacrament of Confession is an age-old Christian practice that has been proven effective of letting go and starting anew. If you are interested in renewing yourself through this sacrament, please contact the Rector.
UNCTION
Unction is the sacred act of anointing holy oil on those individuals who are sick or near death. As we minister to individuals and families going through times of crisis due to injury or illness, this sacrament serves to provide comfort and is a powerful outward sign of God’s active presence in their midst.
In the event of a death, Grace Church supports its members and the greater community through pastoral care and services. All funerals are performed by the Rector of Grace Church and are conducted in accordance with the Book of Common Prayer.
Please contact the Rector directly to inquire about funeral services, burial in the Grace Church Cemetery or the interment of cremains in the Celebration Garden.
All services are at the discretion of the Rector of Grace Church.
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