Baptism

“We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.”

This proclamation, from the Book of Alternative Services, which welcomes the newly baptized, reflects what Baptism is meant to be. In Baptism we both welcome people into our faith community and entrust them to join us, in word and action, in living out a life in obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ.

While our common experience may be the Baptism of newborns, there is no age limit with respect to Baptism. Baptism may take place at any age; infant to adult. Baptism has to do with commitment to a way of life, not something “to be done” out of tradition or to fulfill the expectations of others. For this reason so-called “private Baptism” is not our common practice in the Anglican Church.

If you are considering Baptism for yourself, or for a member of your family, please contact the Cathedral office and you will be directed to one of our clergy who will be happy to discuss this important decision with you.

There are certain times in the Church year that are more appropriate for Baptism to be celebrated so there may be a period between your initial inquiry and the actual event. Baptism is a celebration of the whole community. We want to both welcome you and support you in your faith journey!   

Email: cathedralchurch@eastlink.ca

Confirmation

“Strengthen, O Lord, your servant N with your Holy Spirit; empower him/her for your service; and sustain her/him all the days of his/her life”. (Book of Alternative Services)

With these words, the Bishop, as chief pastor of our Diocese, places her/his hands upon those who desire to confirm or renew the commitment they made, or had made for them, at their Baptism.  

In the case of those who were baptized as infants, the policy of our Diocese encourages young people to have reached the age of 15 prior to Confirmation. Confirmation is to be an act of discernment and commitment not a rite of passage. It is for these reasons that Confirmation involves a time of preparation, study, discussion, and reflection. Adults of any age are encouraged to consider Confirmation or to make a Reaffirmation of their Christian commitment at any time in their life journey.  

Typically Confirmation is celebrated annually at the Cathedral in conjunction with a visit by one of our Bishops. If you wish to explore the possibility of Confirmation, Reaffirmation, or wish to be formally Received into the Anglican Church, please contact the Cathedral Office and one of our clergy will be happy to discuss this decision with you.