Life Events
One of the great gifts of Christian community is how we mark life’s important moments together. In times of joy and grief alike, we gather to celebrate and remind one another of God’s constant presence on our journey of faith.
Baptism
In the Episcopal Church, we believe baptism brings both union with Christ and new life in the Holy Spirit. Regardless of the age at which baptism occurs, it brings with it full membership in the universal Church. Preparation for baptism at Holy Cross typically looks like participating in our Newcomer Class, a conversation with the clergy for parents and godparents, and if the person being baptized is old enough to have their own questions, a meeting with them as well. If you are interested in learning more about baptism, please reach out to Rev. Kelly.
Confirmation & Reception
Confirmation is the sacramental rite in which candidates express a mature Christian faith and receive empowerment for ministry from the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by a bishop. If you were baptized as an infant, it’s an important opportunity to claim God for yourself and to remember that God has already claimed you. If you were confirmed in another denomination but wish to become a member of the Episcopal Church, reception by a bishop is the opportunity to do that. At Holy Cross, preparation for Confirmation and Reception begins a few months prior to our annual bishop’s visitation. We expect the next visitation to be in the spring of 2028.
Weddings
Holy Matrimony is the sacrament by which two people enter into a lifelong covenant intended for their mutual joy. Holy Cross is delighted to celebrate with any couple, regardless of the sex or gender of the partners, as they make their vows to one another before God and seek God’s blessing and grace upon their union. Preparation for marriage at Holy Cross includes participating in our Newcomer class, several meetings with a member of the clergy, and several meetings with a trained couples therapist or pastoral counselor. If you are interested in learning more about getting married at Holy Cross, please contact a member of the clergy.
Funerals
In the Episcopal Church, all funerals are considered to be Easter services because we are a people of resurrection hope. Funerals at Holy Cross are a celebration of life for those we have loved but see no longer. These rituals honor those who have died and provide a critical step in the grieving process for family and friends. Holy Cross also has a Memorial Garden, a peaceful space where the ashes of former members of the congregation are interred. If your family is preparing for a funeral or memorial service, please contact Rev. Kelly.