St. Mark's Episcopal Church, Candor, NY

The Sacraments, Pastoral Offices, and Facility Use at St. Mark's

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Members of St. Mark's look to the Church to solemnize the milestones of their lives. Baptism, marriage and burial from the Church are public expressions of commitment and faith.

The less often used pastoral offices, such as Confirmation upon presentation to the Bishop, can be welcome public expressions of commitment and faith. Inquirers' classes are offered at various time, or can be requested.

Persons interested in Baptism or Confirmation must contact the Warden and/or Priest-in-Charge. Those seeking marriage according to the Episcopal Rite should contact the Priest-in-Charge at the earliest possible time and should plan for counselling. Burials from the Church also require consultation with the Warden and/or Priest-in-Charge. It is customary that an honorarium the priest and the organist be paid for any of these ceremonies not included in then regular Sunday worship.

Often, members of the community not directly affiliated with the Church, former members of the Church or community, extended family, and others seek the Church's good offices for celebratory events. The Church welcomes this interest and attempts to satisfy the spiritual, practical, and sacramental needs of those who request its services.

Sometimes people wishing to be married in the church building, but not in an Episcopal service, make this request that from the Vestry. With the Vestry's permission, the couple has the discretion to select its own service and officiant. A facilty use fee is expected in these cases. In addition, a courtesy honorarium for the priest and for the organist is expected. If the pipe organ is going to be used, the organist must be consulted ahead of time. Alternatively, an electronic organ/piano is available for use. The undercroft is also available for receptions and similar functions for a small facility use fee.

It is the responsibility of those using the Church to restore it to its original condition. The Church does not permit the throwing of rice, birdseed, confetti, or other clutter around the Church. Those needing the services of advice of the Altar Guild or sexton should contact them directly.