Holy Baptism
The sacrament by which God adopts us as God’s children and makes us members of Christ’s Body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God. Because in baptism we are made members of Christ’s Body, baptisms typically occur during Eucharist services when the Body of Christ in Decatur, AL is present and can not only vow to support the person(s) being baptized in their life in Christ but also can reaffirm their baptismal vows.
Holy Baptism is especially appropriate at the Easter Vigil, on the Day of Pentecost, on All Saints’ Day or the Sunday after All Saints’ Day, and on the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord (the First Sunday after the Epiphany). It is recommended that, as far as possible, Baptisms be reserved for these occasions or when a bishop is present.
If you are interested in baptism, please reach out to a member of the clergy for more information and to schedule a Baptism Preparation conversation.
Confirmation
Confirmation in the Episcopal Church is a sacramental rite where individuals make a mature commitment to Christ and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop. This rite deepens one’s connection to the Church and its mission, reflecting an intentional embrace of faith and discipleship.
While baptism alone makes one a full member of the Body of Christ, confirmation is required for those wishing to serve in church governance, both at the parish and diocesan levels, or for those discerning a call to Holy Orders. It is also an opportunity for individuals joining The Episcopal Church from another denomination to formally affirm their commitment.
Preparation for confirmation typically begins each spring, about six weeks before the Bishop’s annual visit. For more information, please contact a member of the clergy.
Holy Matrimony
Holy Matrimony is Christian marriage, in which two people enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows.
The Episcopal Church welcomes all couples, regardless of gender, to seek the blessing of marriage, provided they meet the Church’s guidelines. At least one person in the couple must be a baptized Christian, and the couple must be willing to commit to a relationship grounded in mutual respect, support, and faithfulness. Premarital counseling with clergy is required for all couples to ensure the couple understands the spiritual, relational, and practical dimensions of marriage.
Please reach out to a member of clergy for more information.
Ordination
The rite in which God gives authority and the grace of the Holy Spirit to those being made bishops, priests, and deacons, through prayer and the laying on of hands by bishops.
The ministry of a priest is to represent Christ and his Church, particularly as pastor to the people; to share with the bishop in the overseeing of the Church; to proclaim the Gospel; to administer the sacraments; and to bless and declare pardon in the name of God. The ministry of a deacon is to represent Christ and his Church, particularly as a servant of those in need; and to assist bishops and priests in the proclamation of the Gospel and the administration of the sacraments.
Those who feel called to ordination go through a time of personal/individual discernment, at least 6 months of parish level discernment, and another time (6-12 months) of diocesan level discernment. If approved to continue further discernment, a person may then begin formation for ministry. For more information, please visit the Diocese of Alabama’s Vocation & Call webpages and reach out to a member of clergy for more information.
Reconciliation of a Penitent
The Reconciliation of a Penitent, commonly known as confession, is a sacramental rite in the Episcopal Church offering the opportunity to seek God’s forgiveness and receive assurance of pardon through a private confession to a priest. This practice is rooted in the belief that God’s mercy and grace are always available to those who seek them with a sincere heart.
The Episcopal Church teaches “all may, some should, none must” when it comes to confession. All are welcome to make a confession if they feel it would deepen their relationship with God. Some should seek reconciliation if they are burdened by sin and desire a tangible moment of healing and grace. None are required to participate, as God’s forgiveness is available through personal prayer, corporate worship, and the confession made during the Eucharist.
This rite is confidential, with the assurance that what is confessed remains strictly between the penitent and the priest. The goal is not to dwell on guilt but to experience the transformative love and forgiveness of God, offering a fresh start in faith and life. Reconciliation can be a powerful spiritual practice during seasons like Lent or in moments of significant self-reflection.
Please reach out to a member of clergy to schedule a time for this sacrament.
Unction
Unction, or the Anointing of the Sick, is a sacramental rite in the Episcopal Church offering prayers for healing, strength, and comfort. It often includes the laying on of hands and anointing with oil as outward signs of God’s grace and presence. Unction is available for those experiencing physical, emotional, or spiritual struggles and serves as a reminder of God’s healing love in times of need.
At St. John’s, we honor this tradition through a weekly Service of Holy Eucharist with Prayers for Healing every Wednesday at 12:10 PM in St. Mary’s Chapel. This intimate service provides an opportunity for anyone seeking God’s comfort and renewal to come together in prayer and community. Whether you carry personal burdens or intercede on behalf of others, you are welcome to experience God’s grace and the Church’s support in this sacred space.