First Happenings
Prayer | Bible Verses
Baptism | Communion | Membership | Weddings | Funerals
Baptism and Holy Communion are the two primary expressions of God's grace which we celebrate. St. Augustine of Hippo (354-430) defined sacrament as "the outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace." We feel God's presence and power within the sacraments, even as we continue to stand before the mystery within them.
Baptism
Baptism is ancient of origin, having been practiced among the early Hebrews. It has always involved the use of water, and at times the use of blood, both essential elements of life.
"Through the Sacrament of Baptism we are initiated into Christ's holy church, are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit. All this is God's gift, offered to us without price."
(The United Methodist Hymnal, 1989)
We practice both infant and adult baptism. We baptize infants because "Our Lord has expressly given little children a place among the people of God, which holy privilege must not be denied them. Remember the words of the Lord Jesus Christ, how he said, 'Let the children come to me, do not hinder them; for to such belongs the kingdom of God.'"(Matthew 19:14)
Confirmation
When children are baptized, it is the duty and privilege of parents to teach them its meaning and to lead them into the love of God and Jesus Christ. When a baptized child completes the sixth grade, the church provides intensive training for confirmation and full membership.