
SACRAMENTAL RITES & FUNERALS
Holy Baptism
Holy Baptism is the sacramental rite of full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body, the church. The liturgy is an outward sign celebrating God’s grace, the forgiveness of sin, and our belief that the spirit of God resides within each of us. Through the waters of Holy Baptism, we are “marked as Christ’s own forever.”
Adult candidates for baptism and parents of infants and children to be baptized should make an appointment to discuss baptism with The Rev. Jim Quigley.
Holy Communion
At St. David’s, all are welcome to share in Holy Communion, the sacred meal at the heart of our worship. In the breaking of bread and sharing of the cup, we remember Christ’s love, draw closer to God, and are nourished for our life in the world. Whether you come with deep faith or simple curiosity, you are invited to receive. Gluten-free wafers are available, and children are welcome to receive communion or a blessing.
Confirmation
Confirmation is the sacramental rite in which the baptized candidates express a mature commitment to Christ and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a Bishop (adults who are baptized with the laying on of hands by a bishop are considered to be confirmed). Annual classes for youth and adults are held at St. David’s each fall and Confirmations take place at the Washington National Cathedral.
These classes review the basic tenets of Christianity and help participants to reflect on the practical implications for a life of faith. Candidates for confirmation are urged to identify their own spiritual gifts and grow in their commitments to serving God in the church and in their lives. The Classes are conducted by the clergy.
To learn more or to enroll, contact The Rev. Jim Quigley.
Weddings
Marriage is the sacramental rite of the church in which two persons enter a life-long union, making vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows. The union is understood to be intended by God for their mutual joy; for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity; and, when it is God’s will, for the procreation of children and their nurture in the knowledge and love of the Lord. Marriage at St. David’s is open to parishioners, children of parishioners, and those who are in the process of becoming parishioners.
Exceptions to this rule are made when at least one of the persons’ seeking the blessing is an active member of another Episcopal congregation. All marriages at St. David’s are celebrated with joy and dignity and include the celebration of marriages between two persons of the same sex.
Funerals and Memorial Services
Episcopal funerals are liturgies that celebrate the lives of those we love but see no longer in the light of the Resurrection of our Lord and savior Jesus Christ. Thus, the burial of the dead mirrors an Easter liturgy. Funeral services are open to non-members of the church, but all funeral and memorial services are conducted according to The Book of Common Prayer and often include remembrances by loved ones, scripture readings, hymns, a homily, and a commendation. It is best to make arrangements for a funeral or a memorial service with a member of St. David’s clergy as soon as the death occurs.
This form will assist you in the planning of a funeral or memorial service at St. David’s.
The Columbarium at St. David’s
St. David’s Episcopal Church offers a serene and sacred Columbarium—a final resting place for the ashes of loved ones within the embrace of our church community. Nestled in a peaceful garden setting, the Columbarium serves as a space for remembrance, reflection, and prayer. It is available to parishioners and their families who wish to have their ashes interred on church grounds, in a place marked by grace and continuity.
To learn more or begin the application process, please review the St. David’s Columbarium Agreement (PDF).
Feel free to reach out to The Rev. Jim Quigley with any questions.