These important events are known as ‘rites of passage.’ ‘Passage’ suggests movement and journey as a ‘rite’ is a ritual or ceremony that helps us to make that movement and go on that journey.

We celebrate the birth of a child, deciding to be a Christian for ourselves, getting married and even death. These are considered to be sacraments. When people call something a sacrament, they mean that it is something ordinary in itself, but which also has a special sacred or holy meaning.

Here are some key ‘rites of passage’ for the Christian Church and part of what St. James's has offered since 1863 and continues to offer. See above in the Rites of Passage Contents.