Baptisms, Weddings, and Funerals

Baptisms

The Episcopal Church believes that any baptism by water in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit is valid, no matter the denomination.

If you would like to have your child baptized, or are interested in learning about baptism as an adult, the first step is to reach out to Rev. Rowan.

All candidates for baptism (or their parents) are required to meet with the Rector for baptismal preparation prior to the sacrament. This conversation is usually about an hour and includes a discussion about the traditions and theology of baptism, ongoing faith formation for the baptized, and a walk through of the service.

At St. James, we hold baptisms four times a year on the principle baptismal feasts. We may also offer one summer baptism Sunday by prior arrangement.
In 2024, baptisms will be held on:
The Baptism of our Lord — Sunday, January 7, 2024
The Great Vigil of Easter — Saturday, March 30, 2024 at 7 pm
The Day of Pentecost (50 days after Easter) — Sunday, May 19, 2024
The first Sunday in November (All Saints' Day) — Sunday, November 3, 2024

“We thank you that by water and the Holy Spirit you have bestowed upon these your servants the forgiveness of sin, and have raised them to the new life of grace. Give them an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works.” - Baptism Service, BCP

Weddings

“The union of two people in heart, body, and mind is intended by God for their mutual joy and for the help and comfort given one another in prosperity and adversity.” - The Celebration and Blessing of a Marriage, BCP

The sacrament of Holy Matrimony is the start of a journey together in faith. St. James is delighted to celebrate weddings for couples of all gender identities and sexual orientations who are members of the church. We do not offer weddings for non-members, but becoming a member is easy – just attend worship with us regularly! Marriage can be challenging, and couples often need the support of a faith community. Being part of a faith community as you begin your life together is an important part of laying a solid foundation for marriage.

All arrangements for your wedding at Christ Church begin with notifying the clergy. Weddings at St. James must be officiated by St. James clergy, although you can discuss having other clergy involved in the service with the Rector. We strongly recommend meeting with the Rector before scheduling a wedding date, and at least 10 months before you plan to be married, or even longer if it is a second marriage for one or both of you. At least four premarital counseling sessions are also required to be married in the Episcopal Church.  

Funerals

The burial rites of the Church provide an opportunity for family and friends to acknowledge faith and hope in the midst of loss, and to commend those we love to God’s never-failing care. Along with support and fellowship in times of grief, St. James is available for funerals of parishioners and their families.  Our parish also welcomes non-members who request a funeral service, provided the dates and times are available.

The first step is reaching out to our clergy, one of whom will meet with you prior to the service to pray with you, find out more about your family’s needs, and guide you in choosing scripture and music for the service. We can hold larger services in the Sanctuary or small, intimate services in the Chapel of the Resurrection which also houses our columbarium.  

If you have questions about reserving a space in the columbarium, contact the office by email or at 406-586-9093 x1.

Readings for funeral services can be found here

“Give rest, O Christ, to your servants with your saints, where sorrow and pain are no more, neither sighing, but life everlasting. All of us go down to the dust; yet even at the grave we make our song: Alleluia, alleluia, alleluia.” - Burial Service, BCP