“So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted
and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with
thankfulness.”
– Colossians 2:6-7
Life’s “hinge moments” – when we celebrate new life, new love, or say goodbye to ones who have died, are sometimes when we feel God’s presence most closely. At Christ Church we celebrate the movement of the Holy Spirit in us at such times, and mark them with worship that is both solemn and joyful. Here is more information about baptism, weddings and funerals (or, as they used to say, how you can be “hatched, matched or dispatched”) at Christ Church.
Baptism
Baptism in the Episcopal Church is a joyful rite of entry into the community of faith and the eternal life of God we are privileged to begin here and now. We baptize infants, older children or adults; there is no time more “right” than another. There are, however, four occasions in the church year particularly suited for baptism: The Feast of the Baptism of Jesus in early January; Easter in the springtime; Pentecost in later spring; and All Saints Day the first Sunday of November. Baptisms can be scheduled at other times of the year; we generally do not celebrate baptisms during the season of Lent. Please fill out this form to schedule a baptism at Christ Church, or contact our rector if you have any questions about baptism.
During a baptism, promises and faith commitments are made. In the case of older youth and adults, the one baptized makes these promises her or himself. For infants and younger children, parents and godparents promise on behalf of the baptizand. Therefore it is important that at least one parent and one godparent claim Christian faith and practice for themselves – that they believe in Jesus Christ as the Risen Son of God and are or intend to be an active member in a church community, and intend to raise the child to be baptized in a congregation.
Weddings
If you are planning a wedding, congratulations! Weddings are a truly joyous time for those who are planning to be married, and for their respective families.
In the Episcopal Church, marriage is considered a sacramental rite – a special, unique opportunity to experience God’s grace and blessing – and it is recognized as a life-long commitment between two consenting adults, intended for their mutual joy and support. Couples that are not members of Christ Church or another Episcopal Church are welcome to celebrate their wedding in our historic church. Couples need to meet with the rector before scheduling weddings at Christ Church.
Weddings celebrated at Christ Church must be celebrated in accordance with the requirements of the Episcopal Church. At least one of the two people intending to marry must be a baptized Christian (we recognize baptisms performed in most Christian churches and denominations, so you do not need to be a baptized Episcopalian).
Pre-marital counseling is required prior to any wedding celebration. This counseling may be completed either by our clergy or by a licensed professional therapist. Wedding ceremonies at Christ Church are typically performed by our priest. On occasion, permission will be granted to clergy of other churches or Christian traditions to officiate.
Our Parish Hall may be rented for receptions, subject to an agreement you can find here.
If you are interested in celebrating your wedding at Christ Church, please contact the church office or 301-259-4327. We look forward to talking with you about your special day!
Funerals
Episcopal funerals are formal and beautiful worship services, with a focus on our belief in resurrection life in Christ. Christ Church is happy to accommodate requests to hold a funeral in our sanctuary. Please contact the church office or call 301-259-4327 to discuss it.
To inquire about purchasing plots and/or burial in our historic cemetery, please contact the church office or call 301-259-4327