In the Christian tradition, Baptism is one of the fundamental sacraments of faith. It symbolizes the incorporation of the individual into the corporate body of Christ. At St. James', we see Baptism as a solid, objective milestone in each Christian's history of salvation, signifying our obedience to the commands of our Lord. We promise to obey Jesus Christ as Lord, and to raise our children in the Christian faith. At St. James' we hold our services of Baptism on Sunday morning, in the presence of the gathered church family. This stresses that our fundamental commitment to God is public, not private, and we need the community of faith to live out our baptismal vows.
Marriage is one of the richest blessings in life. It is a celebration of the love God has for you, and the love He gives you for each other. Christian marriage is more than two individuals coming together-it is inviting the Lord to be central in your lives as individuals and as a couple.
The vows you make during your wedding ceremony will help you begin a lifelong commitment to one another and to the Lord in the presence of God, family and friends. Our prayer for you is that your life together will be a blessing to you and many others, and that together you may become a powerful witness of what a Christ-centered marriage can be.
The death of a family member is a painful time, in which we "share one another's burden," and a joyous time in which we celebrate the assurance of eternal life. We encourage St. James' members and their families to conduct these services at the church
When those who were baptized as infants or small children desire to publicly affirm the Lordship of Jesus Christ in their life, they do so in the rite of Confirmation. Those wishing to reaffirm the Lordship of Jesus Christ in their life may also participate in this rite; their part is called Reaffirmation. We encourage those who come to us from different denominations to participate in this rite, too. All who participate affirm the baptismal covenant, and receive prayer and the laying on of hands.
To prepare for Confirmation, Reception, or Reaffirmation, we offer the following preparatory courses:
