Communion and Baptism

Sacraments

In our Reformed Tradition, we say that, "Sacraments, along with preaching, are means of grace by which God presents Christ to people." We celebrate two: Communion and Baptism.

Communion

We celebrate the Lord’s Supper in recognition of our communion with Jesus Christ as he commanded in Luke 22:19 and 20, “And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, ‘This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.’ In the same way, after the supper he took the cup, saying, ‘This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.' 

By taking the bread and juice we are united with Jesus Christ, his church and with one another as we recommit our lives, individually and corporately, to serving him and to await His Return in Glory.

Communion is usually held on the First Sunday every month.  Anyone who professes Jesus Christ as his/her personal Lord and Savior is welcome to participate in Communion, regardless of church membership. 

But, are you wondering if your child should take communion?

Children and Communion

It’s Sunday morning and your family is sitting in the pew. The bread and cup are on the table up front and the pastor is preparing to serve the Lord’s Supper. It’s not unusual that a child can be heard asking, “Can I have some bread and juice too?” or “I’m hungry. May I have the snack?” So when is a child ready to take communion?

The Lord’s Supper is one of two sacraments ordained by Christ that are celebrated at Mansfield 1st (baptism is the other).

Sacraments are signs of our covenant relationship with Christ that represent a significant relationship between Jesus Christ and a believer. It is important for those participating in the Lord’s Supper to understand its significance.  Therefore, it is important that a child understand the meaning of the Lord’s Supper before partaking.

When your child expresses interest in partaking of the Lord's Supper, it is important to consider their readiness for this significant sacrament.  Does your child understand that Jesus Christ died for their sins?  is your child able to articulate his/her faith in jesus and desire to follow him?  If so, they may be ready to join in the lord's Supper.  If you are uncertain if your child should take or not, the pastor would be glad to speak with you about this and help you prepare your child(ren).

Baptism

Baptism is one of two sacraments we practice during our worship services (the other is Communion). We believe baptism is not necessary for salvation, but is a symbol of God’s grace offered to all people.

We baptize infants as a sign and seal of God’s covenant of grace with us. We also baptize adults who have not previously been baptized upon their profession of faith in Jesus Christ.