Because Confirmation is a mature and individual commitment to follow Jesus Christ, it is recommended that only children fifteen and older consider this step. Instruction for both adults and youth is provided. The Episcopal Church holds that matrimony is a sacred calling. The church advises that the couple enter into a period of premarital counseling with a member of the clergy. The priest cannot do that unless he or she is convinced that the couple intend to form a Christian marriage in accordance with the understanding of the Episcopal Church.
Most couples find the premarital counseling period to be enjoyable and valuable.
It gives the couple a chance to talk together in the presence of a trained clergy person about various issues in their relationship. It is designed to help them deal with the many issues that arise in the beginning of married life and to develop a firm foundation for their marriage. Private Holy Communion Holy Communion is available at any time for the hospitalized, shut-in, or those recuperating from illness at home. It is also offered to the hospitalized, to shut-ins, or to any who request its private administration. The Episcopal Church encourages its people to have their burials take place from the church building.