St. Francis Special Services

Infants, children, and adults of any age can be baptized with water and the Holy Spirit to become full members of God’s church. Baptisms traditionally take place as part of a Sunday service.

Confirmation classes are offered for teens and adults who wish to be confirmed or received (“reception into the church” is the term used for Christians of other denominations who wish to become Episcopalians). Clergy teach the classes, which cover the beliefs and history of the church. These culminate in a visit by the Bishop, who confirms and receives the students during a special Sunday service.

The sacrament of Holy Matrimony is a joyful occasion at St. Francis. It is most appropriate that members of the church exchange their marriage vows in the midst of their community of faith. Priority for weddings is for members of St. Francis and those who have a strong worshiping relationship with the St. Francis community.

“I am the resurrection and the life, saith the Lord. . . and whosoever liveth and believeth in me shall never die.” It is especially appropriate that Christians are buried from the church in services that commend the deceased into the hands of the Lord and provide comfort to those who mourn. St. Francis also offers a Memorial Garden where ashes can be scattered.

As Easter approaches, we prepare ourselves through prayer and self-examination so that we can experience the full joy of Jesus’ resurrection. Services are held on Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, and, of course, Easter Sunday. Children bring baskets to gather Easter eggs, and the full church rejoices.

St. Francis Episcopal Church holds onto the tradition of Advent and the weeks before Christmas as a time of reflection and preparation. Services on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day mark the joyous arrival of the infant Jesus our Savior. The Christmas season then extends a full twelve days to Epiphany, which commemorates the arrival of the Magi.