Ceremonies

For information about planning a Baptism, please reach out to our Rector at rector@cosmv.org.

Baptism is the sacrament by which God adopts us as children and makes us members of Christ’s Body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God. It is symbolized by water and ancient prayers assuring us of forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit. Baptism is available to adults who feel called to this new life, and to children whose parents promise to raise them in faith. Church of our Saviour offers Holy Baptism on specific Sundays, and preparation for Baptism year-round.

Frequently Asked Questions

When do you offer baptism?

We offer baptism at most of our Sunday services at 10:00 a.m., and at our Easter Vigil service (Saturday evening before Easter Sunday). Baptisms are traditionally held on three key holy days of the Church year: The Baptism of Our Lord (The Sunday after the Epiphany in January), Pentecost (late spring), and All Saints’ (the first Sunday in November). We will gladly work with your family schedule in choosing the date for baptism.

Do you baptize infants?

We offer baptisms for all ages.

Do you require godparents or sponsors?

We ask that one or two godparents, adults who will be close with the newly baptized in their life journey, be present. We also suggest a parish sponsor, a member of Church of Our Saviour who provides a connection with the Christian community, be invited to stand with the baptismal candidate during the service.

Confirmation is a sacramental rite in which the candidates “express a mature commitment to Christ, and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop” (BCP, p. 860). Those who were baptized at an early age and those baptized as adults without laying on of hands by a bishop are expected to make a mature public affirmation of their faith, recommit themselves to the responsibilities of their baptism, and receive laying on of hands by a bishop (BCP, p. 412). The confirmation rite is performed by a bishop, alongside other rites of welcome and recommitment like Reception and Reaffirmation of baptismal vows.

COS offers memorial services both on- and offsite, along with pastoral support for the bereaved. We are here to walk with you and your family as you grieve this transition and celebrate a life.

If you need to plan a memorial service, you can start with downloading our Memorial Service Booklet. If you prefer, you can also email our Rector directly at rector@cosmv.org or call our office at (415) 388-1907. We will be happy to assist you.

We encourage all of our members to prepare for their own memorial service in advance, which can help guide family members and friends through planning a liturgy in your memory. A form for this purpose is found in our Memorial Service booklet.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between a memorial service and a funeral?

Generally, a body is present during a funeral, while a memorial service is offered following burial or cremation. We offer both services, depending on the wishes of the family.

Do you offer space for a reception following a memorial service or a funeral?

Yes, you are warmly invited to host your reception here at Church of Our Saviour following a memorial service. We also work with other reception venues in the area and can refer you to caterers for the reception.

Do you offer burial sites or columbarium space?

We will work with local funeral homes for burial or inurnment. While Church of Our Saviour has a memorial columbarium garden, we unfortunately are no longer able to add to it.

Do you offer offsite memorials or funerals?

Yes. We are happy to work with families for offsite memorial services in many of the scenic spots in Marin or at a funeral home.

Do you offer burial services and services for the scattering of ashes?

Yes. These are tailored for each particular situation.

If you are interested in receiving pastoral care for any reason, please reach out to our Rector at rector@cosmv.org or call the office at (415) 388-1907.