Sacraments
We cherish the sacramental life at Mary Magdalene Church. A sacramental spirituality affirms that God shines through this earth, and in every human being who dwells on it. The significant passages, as well as the ordinary moments of our lives, are hallowed by these deep places of encounter with God handed down through the ages.
Our sacraments are open to all— no matter a person’s sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or beliefs/doubts. Christ meets us right where we are, and extends a healing and life-giving touch to all who ask. “No one who comes to me shall I ever reject.” (John 6:37)
Baptism
Celebrates a new beginning when a person becomes a follower of Jesus. We welcome a baby (or adult who has recently chosen the Catholic faith) into the family of the Church, celebrate their inherent dignity as a child of God and “the light of the world” (Matthew 5:14), and pledge to accompany them in the life of being a disciple. If you are interested in having your child baptized at Mary Magdalene, please contact the office.
Confirmation
Celebrates the special way that the Holy Spirit equips a maturing person (typically a teenager on the brink of adulthood, or an adult new to the Catholic faith) with gifts for ministry. For more information, please contact the office.
Eucharist/1st Communion
Jesus ate his meals with people of all kinds— dedicated followers, doubters, seekers, questioners, and those of faiths and backgrounds different from his. He ate with people rich and poor, the devout and those alienated from organized religion. He ate with people on the margins, the hurting, spiritual wanderers, and more. In the same way, at Mary Magdalene everyone is welcome at the Lord’s table. No matter who you are, no matter what you are carrying, you are warmly invited to come as you are—as your full and true self—to receive Communion. Our bread is gluten-free and both wine and juice are offered.
(While Christ’s presence in the Eucharist is a mystery that no person, of any age, could fully wrap their mind around, we do recommend that young children be of a developmentally-appropriate age to understand the holiness of this special moment, and/or receive some spiritual preparation for it. If you are interested in having your child prepare for their First Communion at Mary Magdalene, please contact Pat Davidson or the office.)
Reconciliation
In earlier days, this sacrament was commonly known as “Confession”— a name that perhaps invokes memories of worry or guilt for those raised in the Roman church. At Mary Magdalene, we believe that God’s unconditional love and forgiveness is boundless, and is already given to us even before we ask. However, as human beings, we often struggle to accept this amazing truth, and to let God’s mercy into our hearts. The presence of a priest as a non-judgmental, accepting listener and reminder of Jesus’ loving kindness can be tremendously helpful to many of us. Rev. Celie is available to meet with anyone wishing to receive this beautiful and healing sacrament; simply reach out to her to schedule a time.
Weddings & Funerals
These life passages are sacred transitions when we sense God’s closeness in a profound way. When celebrating the life of a loved one who has passed, or honoring the union of two people, we seek to bring a personal touch that shines a light on the uniqueness of the individual(s). Please reach out to the office.
Anointing of the Sick
If you, or a friend or loved one, are sick or in the hospital and would like to receive a blessing, please contact Rev. Celie at 315-538-4910. (For emergencies, eg. the last rites: 315-877-3302.) Rev. Celie is happy to visit those in need of a priest, whether members of Mary Magalene or not.