Baptism and Confirmation
Baptism is a rite of belonging in which we enter into a relationship with Jesus Christ and the Church. Confirmation is how we affirm our desire to be part of the Anglican Tradition.
At Saint Mark’s, we baptize people of all ages, offering classes to meet the varying needs of those seeking the rite. We understand baptism, along with the eucharist, to be one of the two major sacraments—that is, ritual actions that convey God’s grace in a special and powerful way.
When do baptisms happen?
Baptisms in the Episcopal Church occur on or near four feast days with a particular association with baptism: All Saints Sunday in November, the Baptism of Jesus in January, Easter (for infants, the Sunday after Easter Day) in the spring, and Pentecost Sunday in late spring/early summer. Typically, adults are baptized at the Easter Vigil (the evening before Easter Day).
Does Saint Mark's honor requests for private baptism ceremonies?
Because baptism celebrates entry into God’s family as symbolized by the Church, baptisms are celebrated at one of the three Sunday morning liturgies, when our Saint Mark’s household is gathered together. Private baptisms or those at times other than the ones mentioned above are not generally held at Saint Mark’s.
Adult Baptism
Classes begin either in September or January. The inquiry class serves two purposes: It acquaints the participants with information about the Episcopal Church and about what it means to live a Christian life and to know Christ. It also prepares individuals for Baptism and Confirmation, or reception into the Episcopal Church. During the fall, classes are held on Wednesday evenings. Baptism and Confirmation are scheduled for the Easter Vigil (the Saturday before Easter) or at the diocesan-wide seasonal Confirmation at Christmas.
If you are an adult seeking baptism, please contact the Rev. Canon Rebecca L. McClain, at rmcclain@saintmarks.org or 206.323.0300, ext. 222.
Children and Youth
To learn more, contact Cindy Spencer cspencer@saintmarks.org or 206.323.0300, ext. 225.
Confirmation for our youth is also offered. To learn more, contact Cindy Spencer cspencer@saintmarks.org or 206.323.0300, ext. 225.
Baptismal Preparation For Parents and Godparents of Infants and Young Children
Preparation for baptism is almost as important as the baptism itself. In the classes, parents remember their own baptisms, share the hopes and dreams they have for their children, renew their commitment to live out the promises they have made, and make connections with other parents.
Two series of classes are usually offered each year, each followed by two opportunities for baptism. Once you have taken the classes, you can have your child baptized at any of the four baptismal occasions.
To register for baby baptism classes, contact Cindy Spencer cspencer@saintmarks.org or 206.323.0300, ext. 225.
Fall 2011
FALL CLASSES: Sundays, October 16, 23, 30 (3:30-5:00 p.m.)
BAPTISMS: All Saints Sunday, November 6 (8:00, 9:00 or 11:00 a.m. liturgy) - Rehearsal November 5
BAPTISMS: Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord, January 8 (8:00, 9:00 or 11:00 a.m. liturgy) - Rehearsal January 7
Spring 2012
SPRING CLASSES: Dates tbd
BAPTISMS: Second Sunday of Easter, April 15 (8:00, 9:00 or 11:00 a.m. liturgy) - Rehearsal April 14
BAPTISMS: Pentecost Sunday, May 27 (8:00, 9:00 or 11:00 a.m. liturgy) - Rehearsal June 26
Childcare is available for parents attending these classes. To register for childcare, call the Childcare Reservation Hotline: (206) 323-0300 x208.
The Catechism of the Episcopal Church
An Outline of the Faith, commonly called the Cathechism can be found in the Book of Common Prayer.