Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions that are frequently asked about St Mary Magdalene's. Please contact us with additional questions you might have.
Are you Protestant or Catholic?
Both, actually. We are a member of the Anglican Church of Canada, which has its historic roots in the Church of England, which broke away from the Roman Catholic Church over political and other issues. But there are more ways of being Catholic than simply being "Roman" Catholic. That said, we do often look to Rome for precedent in liturgical matters and we take the sacramental heritage of the church into proper account. In more than one sense, we are a middle way between the extremes of protestantism and catholicism.
May I Receive Communion in Your Church?
The Anglican Church of Canada welcomes all those baptised in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit to receive Holy Communion. If, however, you wish to receive a blessing only, and not Holy Communion, simply kneel at the altar rail with your arms crossed over your chest and the priest will bless you rather than administer you communion. Please note that children who have been baptised are encouraged to receive communion as they, too, are full members of the body of Christ.
May I Ask You to Pray For Someone?
Yes. The ministry of worship is one of the most important things we do at SMM, and that includes praying for our own needs and those of others. To request prayers, simply call or e-mail the church office. Alternatively, you may make your request in person to a member of the clergy.
Is it Safe to Drink From the Common Cup?
Yes, several studies done by organizations such as the CDC have demonstrated that the likelihood of receiving a disease by drinking from a communion chalice is very low. The antiseptic qualities of the alcohol and the metal of the chalice combined with the wiping of the rim by a server make it to safe to receive Holy Communion in this manner. However, the dipping of the bread into the wine (intinction) is no longer allowed since fingers inevitably get dipped, too, where this practice is allowed. If you would like to receive the host only, and not the consecrated wine, simply cross your hands in front of your chest as the chalice bearer approaches. More information about the Anglican Church of Canada's position on the safety of the common cup may be found here. The Diocese of Toronto has also prepared this summary report based on their studies of the issue.
I'm Interested in Getting Married at your Church...
Wonderful! Marriage is a beautiful and joyous sacrament. As such, we expect people entering into Christian Marriage to undergo preparation with a member of the clergy. Please come to church some Sunday and introduce yourself to the clergy.
Does SMM Accept the Ordination of Women?
Yes, and women celebrate mass from time to time at our church. The Rev'd Canon Maylanne Maybee joins us regularly as Deacon. Women also serve important functions as servers, chalice bearers, and lay leaders.
Do you Use the BAS or the BCP?
We generally follow the Book of Alternative Services forms for modern and traditional language eucharists. We also add liturgical material taken from other sources (like the Roman Missal).
Does SMM Welcome Homosexual Persons?
The Church of St Mary Magdalene strives to be a place where everyone is welcome, regardless of age, race, sexual orientation.
I Want to Know More About Having Myself or My Child Baptised...
Baptism – the rite of initiation into the Christian community – is available for those of any age who wish to receive it. Please come to church some Sunday and introduce yourself to the clergy to find out more.
Is Your Church Accessible to Persons in Wheelchairs?
Yes, a wheelchair can enter the church by the door nearest the church office without having to negotiate any steps. Furthermore, a lift allows access to the rooms in the basement of the church.
