Saint Stephen's is a sacramental church-- that is, we believe God works through physical means to give us His grace. In water and oil, bread and wine, God gives us a share in His life and the life of the Church.
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Being Baptized at Saint Stephen's
Anglicans recognize the validity of all baptisms performed with water in the Name of the Holy Trinity. For this reason, we do not re-baptize those who were baptized in a different Christian church. If you have never been baptized and are interested in taking this next step, please reach out to the pastor, Fr. Lorenzo. The most important thing is to attend the Sunday services and begin praying if you aren't already, using the Psalter and Book of Common Prayer.
We also hold an Inquirers class in the fall about the essential teachings and practices of the Christian faith. Baptisms are scheduled at several key points through the church year.
Being Confirmed at Saint Stephen's
If you are already baptized and would like to reaffirm your commitment to Christ through the Bishop's laying on of hands and anointing with holy oil, let Fr. Lorenzo know. The Bishop visits the church once a year. The Inquirers class also serves as a preparation for Confirmation.
Being Married at Saint Stephen's
Our church is a lovely venue for celebrating the sacrament of Holy Matrimony. We solemnize marriages using the time-honored Book of Common Prayer and traditional hymnody. Normally, at least one of the spouses must be a member of Saint Stephen's. It is expected that both parties are baptized Christians who will seek to honor God in their marriage. Pre-marital counseling with the pastor (typically three sessions) is required in most cases.
Saint Stephen's upholds the historic Christian teaching that marriage is between one man and one woman, with the intent that the union be lifelong, as taught in our Prayer Book (BCP 422).
Being Buried at Saint Stephen's
All members of Saint Stephen's are entitled to a funeral service at the church. Funeral liturgies can also be conducted for those who are not members. The pastor will never refuse a request to hold a funeral for someone who has died-- the Church is ever ready to commend the departed to the all-merciful God.
We also have a Columbarium in our Chapel, which houses the cremains of the deceased. Members of the church have priority in being interred in the Chapel, but non-members can also request to purchase a niche.