Leading up to the season of Lent, which begins next week on Ash Wednesday (March 5), we have been focusing our attention on the ways that Christ’s light and truth shines at First Presbyterian Church. We have discussed programs, projects, and even the mission of our congregation, as well as some of the essential functions of a church community. This week, I want to mention one of the special and unique ways that God’s light shines through the church— specifically through the presence and the celebration of the Sacraments.
In the “Book of Order” (the constitution for the Presbyterian Church USA), one section (F-1.03030) mentions that the church is really the church, and Christ is present when “the Sacraments are rightly administered.” As Presbyterians, we acknowledge and celebrate two sacraments: the Sacrament of Holy Baptism and the Sacrament of Holy Communion. Along with many other Christian churches, we set apart these two sacraments (or, these “sacred/holy acts”), because they are both commanded by Christ and available to ALL people. We believe that in the combination of physical elements (like water, bread, and wine/juice) together with the spoken Word, a sacred thing happens, and Christ is truly present with us— providing us with support, encouragement, and reminding us of God’s grace.
The Sacraments are regularly celebrated at First Presbyterian Church. Baptism is intended to be celebrated and received once in the life of a believer. Baptism is an outward sign of the transforming power of God at work in an individual’s life. Even if we make mistakes along the way, we know that God is still at work. When we hold a celebration of Baptism in our church service, we are also reminded of God’s claim on our own lives, and God’s activity transforming us to be more like Christ. Holy Communion is celebrated much more frequently. It is our current practice to offer Communion on the first Sunday of each month. In these sacred acts, we remember Christ’s death and sacrifice for us, and we also acknowledge Christ’s sustaining presence in our lives. Each of these sacraments is a gift of God’s grace and an opportunity to remember and celebrate our faith together with those around us.
Are there times in your life when the sacraments have been especially impactful or had a profound influence of on your faith and your relationship with God? I’d love to hear about it. Let me know.
Very truly,
Pastor Adam
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