The Prayer Book teaches that a sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. There are many ways in which God's grace is imparted to us, but these traditionally have been called sacraments:

The Holy Communion

Whether called The Holy Communion, The Holy Eucharist, the Lord's Supper or the Mass, this sacrament is at the heart of our life as a Christian community. It recalls Jesus' offering of himself for the whole world. It is a feast through which we believe Christ continues to nourish and sustain us with his life-giving Presence (his Body and Blood). Moreover, it is a "family feast" ― the gathering of the community, the sharing of the love of God in communion with one another and with God. The more we come to the Eucharist (which means "thanksgiving"), the more we grow together with Christ and with one another).

Confirmation

The rite through which one renews the promises of baptism and, through the laying on of hands by the Bishop, receives strength from God to live the Christian life as a responsible adult.

Unction

Healing has long been a part of Christian ministry and is biblically commended. Special healing services are held regularly at the Cathedral, and the clergy frequently anoint and pray with those who are ill. Unction is not only provided for healing of the body, but healing of the soul.

Reconciliation (also called Penance or Confession)

As Episcopalians, we make a our confession during most worship services and we receive priestly absolution (the assurance of God's forgiveness). There are times, however, when people desire to make a specific confession, and a Prayer Book service is provided which may take place either in an informal or a formal setting. There is an old Anglican adage regarding private confession: "All may. Some should. None must."

Holy Matrimony

A man and a women are joined together within the community of the Christian family, pledge faithfulness to one another, and receive God's blessing pronounced by a priest of the church.

Holy Orders

The setting apart by the church of men and women called to serve as deacons, priests, or bishops is commonly referred to as ordination. Only a bishop can ordain, and three bishops are required for the consecration of another bishop.

[ Home ] [ Up ]

Send site additions and corrections to the Content Coordinator Sue Ann Jones
Send technical comments and issues to the Webmaster Mike Gaudet
Copyright © 2003 St. Mark's Episcopal Church; excluding materials reprinted with permission.