Sacraments and Services at Trinity

The Episcopal tradition recognizes seven sacraments as “outward and visible signs of inward and spiritual grace,” (The Book of Common Prayer, p. 857) and divides them into two groups.

The two “great sacraments,” given by Christ to his Church, are:

• The Eucharist (or Holy Communion) - In the case of the Eucharist, the outward and visible sign is bread and wine, given and received according to Christ’s command. The inward and spiritual grace is the Body and Blood of Christ given to his people, and received by faith. At Trinity, Eucharist is celebrated weekly in Sunday morning services. (Learn more about Holy Eucharist)

• Baptism - In Baptism, the outward and visible sign is water, in which the person is baptized in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit; the inward and spiritual grace is union with Christ in his death and resurrection, birth into God’s family the Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit. (Learn about Baptism at Trinity)

In addition to these two, there are other spiritual markers in our journey of faith that can serve as means of grace. These include:

• Confirmation: the adult affirmation of our baptismal vows.

• Reconciliation of a Penitent: private confession.

• Matrimony: Christian marriage.

• Orders: ordination to the diaconate, priesthood, or episcopacy.

• Unction: anointing those who are sick or dying with holy oil.

At Trinity, our clergy, staff, and lay volunteers will do all that we can to provide a fitting and meaning-filled funeral for your loved one. We recognize that, upon the death of one we love, there are many arrangements to be made and concerns to be settled. Therefore, we will strive to make your experience here as easy and well-supported as possible. (Learn about the Funeral Guidelines at Trinity Episcopal Church)