The sacrament of baptism at Christ Church is a public act involving the candidates, their sponsors, and the congregation. Persons of all ages are welcomed into the Body of Christ through holy baptism.
Services of holy baptism are conducted at Christ Church five times a year:

* All Saints Sunday (November)
* The Baptism of our Lord (January)
* The Great Vigil of Easter (March or April)
* Pentecost (May or June)
* The Bishop's visit to the parish

The rector holds a mandatory class beforehand to offer instruction for parents of a baptismal candidate or for adults desiring the sacrament of baptism. More details about requirements for baptism can be found in the pamphlet "Guidelines for Holy Baptism" available in the parish office.

Confirmation

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 the bishop’s hands. Confirmation takes place at the bishop’s annual visitation. The minimum age for confirmation is 13.  Confirmation classes are conducted by the rector prior to the ceremony. It is not necessary to be confirmed to be an adult member in good standing at Christ Church. However, confirmation is required for eligibility to vote and to serve in most elected offices in the church, and some appointed offices as well.

Reception

Individuals who have been confirmed in the Orthodox, Lutheran, or Catholic churches need not be confirmed again in the Episcopal Church. During his annual visitation, the bishop receives individuals into Christ Church as members of one holy catholic, apostolic church. Prior to being received, members attend mandatory instruction held by the rector.

Weddings

If you or a member of your family is planning to be married, please contact the parish office as soon as possible to check for available dates and to make arrangements with the rector to discuss wedding details. Only communicants of the congregation are married at Christ Church. Participation in pre-marital counseling sessions with the rector is required.

 

Funerals

Episcopalians are strongly urged to conduct funerals in the church. Arrangements should be made with a priest as soon as a family member dies. Church staff will assist in planning the funeral service and making other arrangements such as burial in the memorial garden (columbarium). Any parishioner who wishes to make his or her own pre-arrangements may do so through the clergy.
Christ Church has a columbarium which was created to meet the desire of many members to be laid to rest near their church. It is located in a garden setting encircling the beautifully lit fountain on the front lawn of the church. The names of the deceased are memorialized on a plaque inside the church.