For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven. (Eccl. 3:1)
Our lives are full of milestones, both joyful and sorrowful, that mark our spiritual journeys. As a neighbourhood parish, St. Martin’s invites you to observe these moments with our community. Please contact Fr. Philip for more information about any of these events.
Baptism
Baptism is the act by which a person is admitted as a member of the church. When someone is baptized through water and the Holy Spirit, they make a commitment to follow Jesus Christ as part of the church community throughout the world. It’s also a sign of God’s amazing commitment to us to invite us into the community of his love.
Parents who are committed to raising their child in the Christian faith can make the baptismal promises to God on their child’s behalf. Adults and older children make their own baptismal promises. In both cases, the candidate is supported by sponsors or godparents.
At St. Martin’s, baptism takes place as part of the Sunday morning service, with the support of the parish community. Candidates for baptism (or parents) will participate in a short session to prepare for baptism, normally held the day before.
Confirmation
Many people who were baptized as children feel called to reaffirm their commitment to the church when they’re older. Adults returning to church after a long absence and individuals from other Christian denominations who want to join the Anglican Church may also choose to participate in a reaffirmation of their baptismal vows.
After preparation, those wishing to confirm their faith and decision to live as Christians are presented to the Bishop at a special service of Confirmation.
Weddings
Christian marriage celebrates the union of two committed persons in the context of their relationship with Christ and the whole Christian family.
To be married at St. Martin’s, at least one of the couple must be baptized in any Christian tradition, and you will be asked to participate in a marriage preparation course before the wedding.
Funerals
The death of a loved one is always a difficult time. Christians believe that the end of this life on earth is the beginning of a glorious new life in Christ. Anglican funerals try to balance the grief of the living with a celebration of the life of the deceased, and faith in the hope of the resurrection.
Funerals are normally planned in conjunction with the family and a funeral home. They can be held at the church, a funeral home or a cemetery, in the context of Christian worship.