Episcopal church offers socially distant blessings in Milton

With many churches not yet able to have their members gather for in-person worship, the Episcopal Church of St. John the Baptist in Milton encouraged its flock to drive by June 21 to receive a baptismal blessing after the livestreamed worship service.

The church patron, St. John the Baptist, was celebrated that day with readings, hymns, prayers and a spirit-filled sermon by the Rev. Martha Kirkpatrick. The sermon is available for viewing on the church’s website and YouTube channel.

Kirkpatrick is on the bishop's staff of the Episcopal Church in Delaware Diocese. The renewal of baptismal vows was also part of the service.

Following worship, Father Tom White, church rector, stood at the church entrance to bless parishioners who drove or walked there. Sprinkling them with baptismal water, White said, "You have been sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked with the cross of Christ forever. Rejoice in God's gift of holy baptism by which you are God's child."

Father Tom said he was thrilled and thankful to see members he's hasn't seen in person since the stay-at-home order began in mid-March.