ምዝገባ · SACRAMENTS & MEMBERSHIP

Be joined to the Body of Christ

Baptisms, weddings, funerals, anointing, and joining the parish — request an appointment with our clergy.

The sacraments of the church

Baptism & Chrismation

ጥምቀት

The first sacrament — birth into the Body of Christ by water and the Spirit. For infants, children, or adult catechumens preparing for entry into the Tewahedo Church.

  • Forty-day rite for infant boys; eighty-day for girls (traditional)
  • Catechumens prepare with the priest over several weeks
  • Christian name chosen from a saint of the synaxarium
  • Godparents from the parish must attend
Request Baptism

Holy Matrimony

ጋብቻ

The sacramental union of a man and a woman before God and the church. Couples meet with the priest for preparation and counsel before the wedding liturgy.

  • Both parties must be baptized Orthodox Christians
  • Pre-marital instruction with the priest required
  • Wedding liturgy includes the crowning and shared cup
  • Schedule allowing for the liturgical season
Request Wedding

Funeral & Memorial

ቀብር

The committal of a departed soul into the hands of God, with the prayers of the church. Memorial liturgies (tezkar) follow at the third, seventh, and fortieth day.

  • Contact the priest immediately upon repose
  • Funeral liturgy at the parish or graveside
  • Memorial (tezkar) at appointed days
  • Prayers offered in the year of mourning
Request Funeral

Anointing of the Sick

ቅብአት

The sacrament of healing and forgiveness, administered by the priest with consecrated oil for those who are gravely ill or facing surgery — a prayer for body and soul.

  • Available at home, hospital, or the parish
  • Call the priest as soon as possible in serious illness
  • Family may join the prayers
  • Often combined with confession and communion
Request Anointing

Confession

ንስሐ

The sacrament of repentance — reconciliation with God and the church through honest confession to a priest. Offered by appointment, especially during the fasts.

  • By appointment with the priest
  • Spiritual preparation recommended
  • Strict confidentiality of the seal
  • Penance assigned for healing the soul
Schedule Confession

Parish Membership

አባልነት

Join the parish family — become enrolled members of Debre Salem St John, supporting the work of the church and participating fully in her sacramental life.

  • Open to baptized Orthodox Christians and catechumens
  • Annual pledge supports parish ministries
  • Connect with the parish council
  • Receive the parish announcements and newsletter
Become a Member

Tell us what you need

Fill out the form below and one of our priests will contact you to arrange the next step. For urgent matters (illness, repose), please call the parish directly — see the Contact page.