Sacraments
&
Weddings
Baptism
Baptism is the sign and seal of incorporation in Christ. Jesus through his own baptism identified himself with sinners in order to fulfill all righteousness. In baptism, we participate in Jesus' death and resurrection. We die to what separates us from God and are raised to newness of life in Christ. As circumcision was the sign and symbol of inclusion in God's grace and covenant with Israel, so baptism is the sign and symbol of inclusion in God's grace and covenant with the Church.
Both believers and their children are included in God's covenant love. Children of believers are to be baptized without undue delay, but without undue haste. The baptism of children witnesses to the truth that God's love claims people before they are able to respond in faith.
The Lord's Supper
We celebrate the Lord's Supper every first Sunday of the month. Anyone who has accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior, including children who are being nurtured and instructed in the faith of the Lord and are baptized, may partake of communion. Even one who doubts or whose trust is wavering may come to the Table to be assured of God's love and grace in Jesus Christ. It is a visible sign of an invisible grace.
We invite you to read 1 Corinthians 10:16-17, 1 Corinthians 11:23-30 and Matthew 5:23-24 to gain a deeper understanding of what communion is all about.
Weddings
Marriage is a gift God has given to all humankind for the well-being of the entire human family. Marriage is a civil contract, but we believe it is also a covenant (a three-way relationship, under God's authority), between a woman and a man in faithful obedience to Christ. If you are a Christian couple then it is appropriate that you would get married in a Christian church, such as ours. If you do not claim Christianity as your religion, then a civil ceremony, outside of the church, may be more appropriate. Please feel free to talk with the pastor to determine what venue would be the best fit for your ceremony. The pastor is open to officiating your wedding at another venue besides our church.