Baptism and the Lord's Supper
THE SACRAMENT OF HOLY BAPTISM
In the United Methodist tradition, we encourage the baptism of infants. Baptism, as we understand it, is one’s sacred entrance into the faith community. We also see baptism as God’s permanent mark of grace upon a human soul—a mark of grace that becomes for us a lifelong reminder of who we are, and whose we are, and at what price we were purchased. We join many other Christian traditions in believing that God welcomes infants to receive this mark of grace in baptism.
Infant baptism, of course, does not nullify a person’s urgent need for personal repentance and faith in Christ when he or she becomes older. Baptism, in other words, is not a cheap “heavenly insurance policy.” But baptism, when celebrated rightly, is the sacramental doorway into what will hopefully become a lifelong relationship with God through Christ.
We acknowledge fully the validity of baptisms experienced in other Christian traditions and denominations. As long as the baptism has been done in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, that baptism is recognized and affirmed in the United Methodist Church, regardless of the denominational tradition in which the baptism took place.
We also believe that baptism, since it is God’s act, never has to be repeated. In other words, “re-baptism” is never necessary. The baptismal covenant can be reaffirmed (much like the reaffirmation of wedding vows); but it never has to be repeated.
At Central Highlands Church, special baptismal celebrations are held during worship on several different weekends throughout the year. These baptismal celebrations are publicized in the weekly worship bulletins. Please contact the church office if you desire baptism for yourself or your child. The pastor will meet with you prior to the baptism in order to explain the sacrament in greater detail and answer any questions that you may have.
In the case of infant baptism, it is best for at least one parent to be a member of Central Highland Church before the baptism takes place. We ask this, not for the purpose of being exclusive, but for the purpose of guarding the meaning and integrity of the sacrament.
THE SACRAMENT OF THE LORD’S SUPPER
United Methodist tradition maintains that the bread and cup of the Lord’s Supper are not merely symbols, but conduits for the real presence of the Living Christ. We believe, therefore, that Christ-followers are to partake of the Lord’s Supper often and with joyful reverence.
No specific rule exists concerning the participation of children in the sacrament of the Lord’s Supper (meaning that there is no specific age that children must reach before they are granted access to the Lord’s table). This decision is left up to the parents. However, since infants are permitted to experience baptism in the United Methodist tradition, it makes good theological sense that children also be invited to come to the Lord’s table as soon as they are able to do so. After all, children bring a wide-eyed excitement to the Communion table that is both beautiful and appropriate.
At Central Highlands Church, the Lord’s Supper is celebrated weekly at the SATURDAY NIGHT service. It is celebrated monthly (on the first Sunday of each month) at our Sunday morning worship services.
As United Methodist Christians, we believe all are welcome at the Communion table who repent of their sin and place their trust in Christ, regardless of their denominational affiliation or church membership status. One need not be a member of any particular congregation in order to commune at Central Highlands Church.