LIFE EVENTS
BAPTISM
Baptism, along with Eucharist, is a major Sacrament of the Anglican Church. Traditionally, we celebrate infant baptism; however with more people coming to faith who have not been baptized there are an increasing number of adult baptisms taking place. Baptism is the sign of new life in Christ, and unites us with Jesus. We are baptized once in our lives, and through baptism, we become part of God’s new creation. Candidates are baptized as Christians, not as Anglicans. Christian churches around the world recognize baptisms done in a different Christian denomination. Parents should carefully choose sponsors (godparents) for their child who will encourage and participate in her/his spiritual life. Sponsors must be baptized but need not be Anglican.
Adults or the parent(s) of children to be baptised are asked to contact Pastor Jonathan who will arrange an initial meeting with you to share some information. Please fill out the application form and submit by email.
LIFE IN THE EUCHARIST
A program offered prior to Confirmation for children grade 2 and up designed to help them participate more fully in the Eucharist as well as to help parent(s) and children share their faith with one another. The program centres around a course book which is used by children and their families to work together at home and at the church. The program is offered as needed.
Please contact Pastor Jonathan who will arrange an initial meeting with you to share some information.
CONFIRMATION
Confirmation is an opportunity for an individual, child or adult 12 years and up to "confirm" their commitment to God, a commitment that was made for them when they were baptized. It is not to be rushed into and is a stepping stone in the Christian life-journey, a continuation in learning what it is to be a Christian. It is no longer just about admission to Communion. (See note on "Life in the Eucharist").
Please contact Pastor Jonathan who will arrange an initial meeting with you to share some information.
MARRIAGE
We are pleased to support the marriage of those who wish to begin their lives together with the blessing of God. The Deanery of Thunder Bay-North Shore offers a Marriage Preparation Workshop each spring and couples are strongly encouraged to attend. The rector of the parish will also meet with the couple a minimum of three times prior to the service beginning at least 6-9months prior to the possible wedding date.
Weddings in the Church are an opportunity for a couple to publicly commit themselves to one another and to ask both God's blessing on and presence within their marriage. The wedding day is one small part of a life-journey together.
Please contact Pastor Jonathan who will arrange an initial meeting with you to share some information.
FUNERALS
Firmly rooted in Christian faith, we can provide assistance and comfort to you during the difficult period following the death of a loved one. A funeral is used to mark the end of a person's life here on earth. Family and friends come together to express grief, give thanks for the life lived and commend the person into God's keeping.
When you contact the office a meeting will be set up with the Pastor. The meeting will provide grief support and begin the preparation for a funeral service. You may choose between a traditional funeral service, a more contemporary service, or a memorial service. All follow a basic Anglican liturgy but you will be able to personalize it with readings, music and a time of thanksgiving. There is space available in Haddon Hall for reception after the service.
Please contact Pastor Jonathan who will arrange an initial meeting with you to share some information.