The United Methodist Church celebrates two sacraments: The Lord's Supper and Baptism. The Lord's Supper, also referred to as Holy Communion, the Eucharistic meal, or Holy Mass is offered the first Sunday of each month. As noted in one publication, "The Lord’s Supper is a means to grace." We believe that understanding this sacrament as a symbol of God's love and grace acts in our daily lives. The breaking of bread and the drinking of the cup is an act of “friendship among people. Jesus gave this practice new and deeper meaning" when he broke bread with his disciples. Baptism is a celebration of a "lifelong process of growth in Chirst." It is ordained by Christ and is only received once, but it has a lifelong impact on one's life as that person grows in his or her relationship with Jesus Christ. People of all ages are baptized in the United Methodist Church. The pastor meets with the parents and/or children and youth prior to this sacrament to help them understand the significance of this sacrament and to answer any questions they my have. Baptism is a commual event where the congregation welcomes, supports, guides and cares for new disicples. "By his great mercy he has given us a new birth." 1 Peter 1:3 Jesus' baptism gave new meaning to this sacrament. In His baptsim, we recognize a gift from God that can be opened through baptism. |