Our Anglican tradition recognizes sacraments as “outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace.” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857) Holy Baptism and the Eucharist (or Holy Communion) are the two great sacraments given by Christ to his Church.
In the case of Holy Baptism, the outward and visible sign is water, in which the person is baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; the inward and spiritual grace is union with Christ in his death and resurrection, birth into God’s family the Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit.
In the case of the Eucharist (Lord’s Supper or Holy Communion), the outward and visible sign is bread and wine, given and received according to Christ’s command. The inward and spiritual grace is the Body and Blood of Christ given to his people and received by faith.
In the Episcopal Church, we take part in regular acts of Christian worship. Within the context of worship, we are recipients of God’s grace through these outward and visible signs (bread, wine, water, oil, etc…) They become the vehicles through which we receive God’s abundant grace.
There are 5 other Sacramental Rites:
- Confirmation (adult affirmation of faith)
- Reconciliation of a Penitent (confession)
- Holy Unction (anointing for healing)
- Holy Matrimony (marriage)
- Holy Orders (ordination).
We believe that God is actively present in the world, with us and working through us. In the sacraments, we realize God’s presence and favor (grace) for us. Through the sacraments, freely given to us by God, we are reassured that our sins are forgiven, our minds are enlightened, our hearts are stirred, and our wills are strengthened.
The sacraments are administered in the worship services found in The Book of Common Prayer, a book that contains the rites and rituals for worship services in the Episcopal Church.
A complete outline of the Episcopal faith (called the catechism) can be found on pages 845-862 of The Book of Common Prayer. See “What we Believe” for the complete catechism.
Your questions are encouraged and always welcome!
What is Holy Baptism?
Holy Baptism is the sacrament by which God adopts us as his children and makes us members of Christ’s Body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God. The outward and visible sign in Baptism is water, in which the person is baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Click Here for more on Baptism.
What is Holy Eucharist?
The Holy Eucharist is the sacrament commanded by Christ for the continual remembrance of his life, death, and resurrection, until his coming again. The outward and visible sign in the Eucharist is bread and wine, given and received according to Christ’s command. Click Here for more on Holy Eucharist.
What is Confirmation (adult affirmation of faith)?
Confirmation is the rite in which we express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop. Click Here for more on Confirmation.
What is Reconciliation of a Penitent (confession)?
Reconciliation of a Penitent, or Penance, is the rite in which those who repent of their sins may confess them to God in the presence of a priest, and receive the assurance of pardon and the grace of absolution. Click Here for more on Reconciliation.
What is Holy Matrimony (wedding or marriage)?
Holy Matrimony is Christian marriage, the rite in which two individuals enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows. Click Here for more on Holy Matrimony.
What is Holy Unction (anointing the sick)?
Unction is the rite of anointing the sick with oil, or the laying on of hands, by which God’s grace is given for the healing of spirit, mind, and body. Click Here for more on Holy Unction
What is Holy Orders (ordination)?
Ordination is the rite in which God gives authority and the grace of the Holy Spirit to those being made bishops, priests, and deacons, through prayer and the laying on of hands by bishops. Click Here for more on Holy Orders.
What are the Ministrations at the time of Death?
Though not considered a sacrament, the church provides ministrations during the process of dying for you, your family and loved ones. Arrangements should be made prior to one’s death. The parish office keeps a record of the arrangements on file. You should specify your service requests, such as specific hymns and special scripture readings to be done. Making prior arrangements helps your family through the grieving process. Click Here for more information about death, dying, and planning for your family.
