Worship
Sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.
Our Sacraments
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.
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. All those who seek baptism are encouraged to be in regular attendance and participate in the life of Grace Church.
Learn more about our Baptismal Covenant at episcopalvirginia.org
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.
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).
The use of Grace Church for a marriage ceremony is reserved for Grace Church members and their families.
All those seeking to be married at Grace are required to participate in pre-marital counseling and meet with the Rector to discuss your intention to be married. Marriage ceremonies are conducted in compliance with the doctrine and worship of the Episcopal Church. Please contact the Rector directly to schedule a meeting to discuss your plans for marriage.
Confirmation
The Rite of Confirmation is administered 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.
End of Life
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.
The Episcopal Church
Learn more about the Episcopal Church and its understanding of the sacraments by visiting the official Episcopal Church website.
Learn More at EpiscopalChurch.org