St. Matthias Church - Pastoral Concerns

Our witness to Christ carries us into all phases of our daily life and encompasses all phases of the human family.

Holy Baptism

This sacrament is the full rite of initiation into the Christian community. It takes place within the context of Sunday worship. Older children and adults who receive this sacrament participate in a period of preparation before Baptism. Call the Parish office for information.

Holy Eucharist

Once Baptised, each person is eligible to receive Holy Communion at any age; however, preparation is necessary. The clergy will be responsible for this. Parents are encouraged to enrol their children in Church School for further instruction.

Confirmation

Confirmation is a mature commitment to the life and faith of the Church. Speak with the Rector for details. Classes can be arranged for adults seeking Baptism, Confirmation or Reception in the Anglican Church.

Holy Matrimony

All weddings taking place in the Parish involve a period of preparation. Call the Parish office for information and to make an appointment. Civil and Canon Law require a minimum of thirty days notice before a marriage may be performed. For a wedding held in the Parish, however, you need to apply much earlier in order to reserve a date and complete the premarital counselling sessions. Persons who have been divorced must apply to the Matrimonial Commission for permission to remarry. Please see the Rector about this.

The Reconciliation Of A Penitent (Confession)

The Prayer Book provides a form of confession and anyone may make use of this sacrament. Contact the priest to make an appointment.

In Times Of Sickness

Remember to let the clergy know if you or a family member is ill so that you can receive the ministry of the church. A priest will pray with you and offer counsel. The sacraments of Holy Communion and Holy Unction are available. If you enter the hospital, register as "Anglican" so that the clergy can find you, or have a relative call the Parish office so that the clergy can be notified.

A Death In The Family

If a family member dies, please notify the clergy immediately. It is appropriate to have the Burial Office with a celebration of the Holy Eucharist held in the Parish when a communicant dies. Members of the church are encouraged to make written instructions about their funeral service and also prepare a will.

Pastoral Counseling

At times of emotional, physical, or spiritual distress, pastoral couselling can be of help. The clergy are experienced in such work. They can make professional referrals as well as provide information about special assistance, which you may need.

Spiritual Direction

The focus in spiritual direction is the on going Christian pilgrimage. Persons wishing to develop their prayer life or to seek individual guidance about spiritual matters can meet with one of the clergy.

Intercessions (Prayers Of People)

During each Eucharist, the Prayers of People include names of persons for whom prayer has been requested. Contact the office to add a name to that list. The sick are mentioned at the Sunday Eucharist's for three weeks. After that time, if you wish for prayers to continue, you must call the office again. Recently departed parishioners are mentioned at Sunday Eucharist's for four weeks and all others for one week.