WORD & SACRAMENTS
"Repent and be baptized, every one of you,
in the name of Jesus Christ
so that your sins may be forgiven.
And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
Acts 2:38
Baptism is for everyone, young and old. Jesus did not set any age-limit. He simply commanded us to baptize 'all nations'. Some Christians believe that only those who are old enough to make a conscious decision for God should be baptized. But it is God who does the deciding in Baptism. He wants to make his personal covenant with all people---even with new-born babies, because they, too, need to be washed and to be born again.
That is why we baptize infants. The Holy Spirit creates the miracle of faith even in infants through Baptism. As the children grow up, we teach them what it means to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, so that they can appreciate the blessings of Baptism. This teaching needs to go on throughout their lives, so that they never lose the benefits or blessings of Baptism, but draw on them all their lives.
Baptism gives us power for Christian living. When Martin Luther felt depressed, or was being bothered by sin and temptation, he would sometimes cry out: 'But I am baptized'. Baptism is my lifelong guarantee that God is for me!
(Adapted from "God For Us - An Introduction to Lutheran Teaching")
HOLY COMMUNION
The Sacrament of the Lord's Supper is offered in all Worship Services on the first, third, and fifth weekends of every month. If you are a guest, you are also welcome at the Lord's Table. However, three things are required of you before you commune with us. First, you must be a baptized Christian; second, that you are truly repentant for your sins, believing that Jesus is your personal Savior; and third, to believe that Christ's body and blood are truly present in the bread and wine for the forgiveness of sins and the strengthening of your faith. If you believe this, then you have a similar understanding of the Sacrament and are welcome to participate with us in the reception of this holy meal. Children under the age of 18 must have completed "Confirmation' in the Lutheran Church before receiving communion. Anyone who is not eligible to receive communion is encouraged to receive a blessing. Please indicate your desire for a blessing by crossing your arms over your chest. For your convenience we offer wine from the common cup or the individual cup. Alcohol-free white wine is available in the center of each individual cup tray.
