Baptism

A person becomes a Christian through the waters of Baptism. This ancient practice commanded by Christ brings us into the full fellowship of his Body, the Church. At Pohick, baptisms are celebrated on Sunday mornings so that the congregation can welcome the candidates into the parish.

Following Church tradition, the service of Holy Baptism is conducted here at the Bishop's annual visitation (June) and during the four times each year when it is the major theme: The Baptism of Christ (early January), Holy Saturday (March/April), The Day of Pentecost (May/June), and All Saints' Sunday (early November).

Confirmation

This is the rite in which baptized members express a mature commitment to Christ and receive strength from the Holy Spirit through prayer and the laying on of hands by a bishop. Weekly classes for both adults and young people (age twelve and older) begin in February of each year and continue up until the time of the Bishop's visitation in June.

Marriage

We consider Holy Matrimony a solemn and public covenant between a man and a woman in the presence of God. In this rite the two enter into a life-long union, make their vows before God and the Church, and receive the grace and blessing of God to help them fulfill their vows.

In accordance with canon law, all couples receive instruction in the theology of Christian marriage during a series of premarital counseling sessions prior to any weddings. Additional steps are required for those who have previously been married, including the submission of a petition to the bishop for his approval. As Holy Matrimony is properly celebrated within one's own parish family, we require that at least one of the couple be a member of Pohick for a minimum of a year prior to the wedding.

Unction of the Sick

Unction is the rite of anointing the sick with oil, and the laying on of hands, by which God's grace is given for the healing of spirit, mind and body. Holy Unction is offered at the 7:30 pm Wednesday Eucharist and by request.

Reconciliation of a Penitent

Private confession is offered to penitents whose consciences suffer from the gravity of sin and who need the assurance of pardon and the grace of absolution given by a priest, always in absolute confidence.

Burial of the Dead

The liturgy for the dead is an Easter liturgy. It finds its meaning in the resurrection. Because Jesus was raised from the dead, we too shall be raised. Christian burial takes place in the church unless otherwise determined by the officiant and the family. Holy Communion is always appropriate in this context. Click here to read more information about Pohick's Cemetery.

Pastoral Counseling and Home Communion

The clergy of Pohick Church are available for pastoral counseling, spiritual direction and administration of the Sacraments (usually private celebrations of the Holy Eucharist and Holy Unction) by appointment throughout the week.