"Q. What are the sacraments? A. The sacraments are outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we receive that grace." So says the "Catechism" of the Book of Common Prayer. For many of us they are the rituals and gestures by which we expect and hope to mark the key and life-changing moments in our lives. They are ways to touch the deeper realities that we are often out of touch with in the hectic and non-stop 21st century world. We welcome you to explore the possibility of entering into these moments and celebrating these mysteries at Resurrection.

Anyone over the age of 16, who wishes to make an affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their Baptism through the laying on of hands by the Bishop at a special service of Confirmation. Those who have been confirmed but may have been out of touch with the formal practice of religion, and wish to reaffirm their membership in the Christian Community are welcomed to prepare for Reaffiirmation. Those who have been members of other communions and traditions who have been confirmed by their bishops and who wish to formalize their membership in the Episcopal Church are invited to "Reception" Because of our belief in the Episcopal Church, in the important role of bishops as signs of unity and tradition, these actions happen in a bishop's presence and with his/her participation. Preparation for those wishing to make such an adult affirmation of Faith includes a specially scheduled course of reading and study under the guidance of the Parish Priest

Members of the church are properly buried from the church. We welcome all, regardless of church affiliation, and the form of service can be flexible. The clergy may also conduct funeral home or graveside services for those who request. The Parish Priest should be contacted as soon as possible after a death has occurred. There are also fees for those who are not members of the congregation, who wish to celebrate a funeral or memorial service here at Resurrection.

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism, as the sacrament of initiation into the Christian Community, is administered within the context of the community's Eucharist on Sundays. For preparation for the baptism of infants and small children, at least one session with the parish priest is required. For adult baptism, we recommend participation in a nine-month adult spiritual formation program (beginning in the fall and ending during Lent), with baptism at the Easter Vigil and confirmation in June. Please call or email the church office for further information and to make an appointment to discuss plans for baptism.

Holy Communion is open to all baptized Christians. It is our custom in the Episcopal Church to invite all baptized persons to receive Holy Communion. Members of other Christian traditions who receive Communion in their own churches are invited to share with us in the Body and Blood of Christ. Persons who do not wish to receive Communion are welcomed and encouraged to come forward to receive a blessing. Parents are asked to assist their young children in receiving the bread and wine. Classes preparing children for Holy Communion are available on request.

Individual Confession (Reconciliation of a Penitent) is available for all who desire it by contacting the Parish Priest.

In case of illness or injury, please notify the parish office as soon as possible. Prayers for Healing are also offered at the Wednesday Eucharist, after the Second Sunday of the month's 10 AM Communion Service, and by request.Please let the parish priest or a member of the Prayer Group, or clergy, for inclusion at Wednesday's 6 PM Evening Prayer, and in the intercessions at Sunday Mass. There is a Book of Intercessions in our Lady Chapel where anyone is invited to write their needs, so that the community may pray for them.

Resurrection can be a beautiful setting for your wedding, and all couples interested in a Christian celebration of the sacrament are invited to enquire about the possibility. We are pleased to celebrate the marriage of both parish members and non-members, though we expect in the case of the latter to have an ongoing pastoral relationship. It is not necessary for either person to be an Episcopalian. We must have at least two months notice prior to the wedding and three or more counseling sessions are required with the officiating priest. Under special circumstances, weddings may be celebrated in locations other than the church. In all weddings performed in the church, the parish music director must be consulted about the music and compensated for her participation. A schedule of fees and a manual for weddings are available for all enquirers. For further information, as well as to make an appointment to discuss wedding plans, please call or email the church office .