Sacraments and Rites

Sacraments are visible signs of God’s presence in our lives, representing key milestones in our faith journey. At St. Luke’s, we welcome everyone to deepen their relationship with God through participating and celebrating in our Sacraments and Rites. For more information about Sacraments at St. Luke’s, call our Parish Office at 401-884-4116 or contact us.

Sacraments

Baptism

The sacrament of Baptism initiates a person into Christ’s body through water and the Holy Spirit. It’s available to both adults and infants. At St. Luke’s, we typically perform baptisms by sprinkling water. Every candidate must have at least one sponsor (or godparent) who is a baptized Christian. Adults and parents are asked to attend a baptism preparation session, which includes a short practice to ensure familiarity with the service.

Eucharist

In the Eucharist, we share Christ’s body and blood through bread and wine. This sacrament reflects Jesus’ actions at the Last Supper, and we believe His presence is truly in the bread and wine. We celebrate the Eucharist every Sunday at St. Luke’s. You can choose to receive just the bread if preferred. Also, gluten-free options are available—simply inform the priest at communion

Rites

Confirmation and Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows

Confirmation is the rite where we express a mature commitment to Christ and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the bishop’s laying on of hands. We offer Confirmation to baptized youth (around 16 years old) and adults. Additionally, those already confirmed may reaffirm their faith when the bishop visits. Adults confirmed in another denomination can be received into the Episcopal Church. To prepare, we hold instructional classes before the bishop’s visit.

Ordination

Ordination is a sacred rite where God grants authority and the grace of the Holy Spirit to those called to serve as bishops, priests, or deacons. Candidates for ordination discern this calling with the Bishop and the Commission on Ministry. The Bishop guides and supports them through the process.

During ordination, the Bishop lays hands on the candidate, symbolizing the transmission of divine authority. This act marks the beginning of their commitment to serve God and the Church. At St. Luke’s, we celebrate ordination as a community, recognizing the grace bestowed upon the newly ordained.

If you feel called to ordained ministry, we encourage you to speak with one of our clergy members for guidance and support in your discernment process.

Unction (Anointing of the Sick)

In this sacrament, the priest lays hands on the sick and anoints them with oil blessed by the bishop. It’s available to anyone in need of God’s healing grace. We hold healing services every Tuesday at noon. The rector and assistant rector are also available for individual anointings by appointment.

Marriage

The Celebration and Blessing of Marriage is a Christian community expression where a couple makes vows before God and the Church, and the priest blesses the marriage. One member of the couple must be baptized, and the marriage should be lifelong. Couples must meet with the priest before setting a wedding date. We also offer blessings for those seeking a religious ceremony after a civil union.

Private Confession (Reconciliation of a Penitent)

Reconciliation of a Penitent, or Penance, is the rite in which a person makes a private confession to God in the presence of a priest. The priest will give guidance and assurance of pardon after confession. As in most Episcopal churches, the congregation says a General Confession as part of the Eucharist liturgy conducted at St. Luke’s every Sunday.

Funerals

While not a sacramental rite, the Burial of the Dead is an important Christian ritual. St. Luke’s conducts funerals in the church or funeral homes for both members and non-members, following Episcopal traditions. The funeral can include the Celebration of the Eucharist. If anticipated, a priest can perform a liturgy at the time of death.