HOLY BAPTISM

Festivals of Holy Baptism are normally held three times a year, in the late Fall, mid-Winter, and Spring. Inquiries about baptism should be directed to our Clergy.

In the month prior to the Baptism Service, parents, sponsors and adult candidates attend preparation sessions, led by a team of clergy and laity. As baptism marks a person's initiation into the Christian Church, parents presenting children to be baptized are expected to participate in the life of our parish family.

CONFIRMATION

Confirmation is the laying on of hands by a bishop in which persons, who were baptized as infants and young children, make a personal profession of faith. They take on the vows made for them at their baptism by their parents and sponsors. An annual program is held for teenagers, age thirteen and up.

REAFFIRMATION/RECEPTION

There is also an opportunity for adults who wish to renew their baptismal vows and make a fresh commitment to Christ, to reaffirm their faith in the presence of the bishop. This is appropriate for those who have completed a refresher course in the faith, those who are returning to the church following some time away, or who are new to the Anglican Church.

MARRIAGE

Guidelines for marriage at St. Andrew's are available at the church. Couples wishing to be married here are expected to give the clergy a minimum of three months' notice of the date of their wedding and attend a marriage preparation course. Within the context of our parish family, the clergy like to develop a pastoral relationship with each couple.

CHRISTIAN BURIAL

The death of a loved one is a traumatic time for all concerned. The clergy and members of our parish family are there to offer comfort and support. Members of the parish community are encouraged to hold the funeral liturgy within the church. The parish is also available for reception purposes. The clergy also conduct funerals in funeral chapels. Each November, an Annual Memorial Service is held in the parish to remember and give thanks for loved ones and friends who have died.

HOLY EUCHARIST

At the Last Supper with his disciples, Jesus left us with the instruction to receive the bread and wine of the Eucharist, which represent the offering of himself to the world. We are fed and nourished as we come regularly to Christ's table. All who are baptized, regardless of age or denomination, are welcome to receive Communion in the Anglican Church of Canada.

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