The Sacrament of Baptism
Baptism is the rite of initiation into the Christian faith, and a choice with life-long implications. This is true if you are an adult seeking to be baptized or if you are a seeking baptism for your child. This sacrament is based upon Jesus’ own baptism in the river Jordan when the Spirit of God descended upon him. (Matt 3:13-17, Mark 1:9-11, Luke 3:21-22, John 1:29-34)
Baptism generally takes place during a Sunday morning worship service of the Holy Eucharist. Since baptism is a sacrament that celebrates a person’s initiation into the Body of Christ, it is appropriate that it take place when others among the St. George’s community of the faithful have gathered in worship.
Adults who intend to be baptized or to have a child baptized will be encouraged to discuss with our priest several weeks before the baptism takes place at St. George’s the Anglican Church’s understanding of baptism, why we practice baptism, and why the sacrament is important in the life of our community, the candidate for baptism, and the baptismal sponsor or godparents.
In Baptism some significant promises are made. Among others, you will be asked if you accept Jesus Christ as your saviour, and if you will be responsible for ensuring that the child you present for baptism is nurtured in the faith and life of the Christian community. During the baptism service, the congregation of St. George’s promises to support the newly baptized person in their life in Christ.
The text for the Rite of Baptism and more information can be found beginning on page 146 of the Book of Alternative Services of the Anglican Church of Canada [PDF].
Please contact us to discuss your interest in arranging a baptism.
Weddings
The sacrament of marriage is offered at St. George’s to any couple of whom at least one is a baptized Christian.
Before being married in the Anglican Church of Canada, couples are required to successfully complete a marriage preparation course. At St. George’s, this involves meeting on a few occasions with our priest to discuss and prepare for a Christian married life.
Our music director, Sarah Bowker, is available to help select and perform music appropriate for your wedding ceremony upon request.
Please contact us to discuss your interest in arranging a wedding.
Funerals
Funeral services can be performed at St. George’s or at the funeral home of your choice.
There are many different options for memorial and funeral services from a solemn funeral rite to a joyful celebration of life. When making arrangements, our clergy will meet with you to help design a meaningful and sacred funeral service that is respectful of the deceased and celebrates the hope that is found in the death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ.
For funerals at the church, we offer the services of our music director and our parish hall for a reception afterwards. The reception may be catered by the parish community or by an outside agency. Arrangements for a reception will be made with Rev’d Sarah.
To discuss funeral arrangements please contact us.
St. George's Anglican Church 