We are a sacramental Church.
Our worship is grounded in scripture and the rich liturgical heritage of The Book of Common Prayer, a living tradition rooted in over two thousand years of church history. The liturgies of the church make holy the times of the day, the seasons of the year, and the transitions of our lives. We recognize Baptism and Holy Eucharist (Communion) as the primary sacraments.
The Episcopal Church believes that the sacraments are an outward sign of God’s grace, which is presence with us. They use simple, tangible items such as bread, wine, water, oil, and touch to express the love of God.
Our other sacraments are Confirmation, Reconciliation of a Penitent, Anointing of the Sick, Holy Matrimony, and Ordination. All Sacraments require the entire community’s presence as we commit to supporting those receiving them.
Holy Baptism is the sacrament through which we receive spiritual gifts and are made members of the Body of Christ, which is the Church. In baptism we renounce Satan, repent our sins, and accept Jesus Christ as our Lord and Savior.
Holy Eucharist, also called the Lord’s Supper, is the sacrament Jesus commanded us to continue in order to remember those events through which we’ve been given eternal life. We believe that Jesus is truly present in the elements of bread and wine. Receiving communion strengthens our union with Christ and one another. Therefore, we come to receive after examining our lives, repenting our sins, and being at peace with one another.
In Confirmation, we express a mature commitment to Christ.
The act of confession to a priest is the Reconciliation of a Penitent. In it, the confessee receives the assurance of pardon and the grace of absolution/forgiveness.
Those who are ill may be anointed with oil and receive the laying on of hands. Anointing of the Sick calls upon God to bestow grace for the healing of body, mind, and spirit.
Holy Matrimony is the rite in which two people enter into a life-long union and receive grace and blessing of God in the fulfilling of their vows.
Those called by God into more focused aspects of their baptisms, and formed by education and prayer under the supervision of diocesan representatives, may participate in Ordination as bishops, priests, and deacons by the laying on of hands of bishops.
“Membership”
While registered membership is strictly speaking not a requirement, for some it can provide a secure sense of belonging, and form an important part of living and growing in faith. Registered membership is open to any baptized Christian who chooses to have his/her name entered into the Parish Register. There is no expectation of financial commitment., but it is hoped that prayerful consideration of the needs of the parish will lead to giving of time and resources to build God’s just kingdom on earth.
Transfer of Membership: If you are already a registered member of another Episcopal parish, you may transfer your membership to Redeemer by completing a transfer request form, which you will then send to your former parish. That parish will send an official letter of transfer to Redeemer. The Office will contact you when your transfer is complete and your name has been entered into the Parish Register.
Reception & Confirmation: If you are not a registered member of another Episcopal parish or are coming to Redeemer from another denomination, you become an official member of the church through the completion of a series of classes and participation in a service of Confirmation or Reception. These services take place twice a year at the National Cathedral. Please speak with Deacon Adrienne if you would like to be a part of the next series of classes.
If you’re curious about any of this, of if you have specific questions about reception, confirmation, baptisms, weddings, anniversaries, funerals or memorials, please contact Deacon Adrienne.