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Pastoral Care

 

"Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep."

Romans 12:15

 

At life's turning points, whether birth or death, hospitalization or health restored, shattering trauma or hopeful new beginning, it is always appropriate to be in touch with the clergy. We love to rejoice with those rejoicing and want to bring the Gospel's message of love and hope to those in loss and sorrow. Consult the clergy about:

 

Baptisms

All persons are welcome to be baptized at St. John's Church. We perform baptisms during Sunday services at the 9:00 AM. or 11:00 AM. services (except no baptisms are performed at the 11 am service the last Sunday of the month). Ideal days for baptisms are on the following feast days: Baptism of our Lord, Pentecost, All Saints', the Bishop's Visitation, and at the Easter services.

 

According to the Book of Common Prayer, "Holy Baptism is appropriately administered within the Eucharist as the chief service on a Sunday or other feast." We are therefore not able to perform private baptisms, unless extraordinary circumstances apply.

 

Please complete the attached form (PDF) to request a baptism.

 

Weddings

The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage is a sacrament of solemn joy requiring extended conversation and preparation under pastoral direction of the clergy. If you would like to inquire about or reserve a date for a wedding, please contact the parish office at 202.338.1796. You may also review the attached wedding packet (PDF) and complete the required information.

Funerals

A death should be reported as soon as possible to the clergy who will assist with any needs that arise as well as make arrangements for funeral or memorial services. You may review the attached sample service program (PDF), which you can discuss with the clergy at St. John's.

 

Ten Reasons to Contact the Clergy

  1. When you are anticipating hospitalization for whatever reason.
  2. When you or someone you care about is addicted to alcohol or other drugs.
  3. When you are having difficulty in your marriage, your family, or other relationship.
  4. When a child is adopted or born.
  5. When you would like to talk or pray about a difficult situation.
  6. When you or someone whom you know is in need of spiritual help or solace.
  7. When there is a death in the family.
  8. When you are new to the area, and would like to become acquainted with the clergy and the ministries of the parish.
  9. When you are considering marriage.
  10. When you feel called to serve God or to contribute to the ministries of the parish in a new and different way.

Lay Eucharistic Ministers

Pastoral Care is not the realm of the clergy alone. All Christians are called to witness to the healing presence of Jesus Christ. Opportunities exist for lay persons to be licensed to be Lay Eucharist Ministers. They will bring Communion to those who are unable to worship at church on a given Sunday or Holy Day. This is in addition to clergy visits to those parishioners. Diocesan training sessions are held throughout the year to educate and equip those called to this ministry.