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We are in the midst of a worship series on the sacrament of Baptism, and mid-August we will move into a series on the sacrament of Holy Communion. In the United Methodist Church, we have two sacraments, compared to seven in the Roman Catholic Church. John Wesley saw the sacraments as “means of grace” in which God acts in a variety of ways, expressing his unconditional love as well as prevenient, justifying and sanctifying grace.

We practice infant baptism because we believe in prevenient grace—the grace that comes before. In other words, God loves us and has blessed us before we even realize who God is. Furthermore, we do not re-baptize because God has acted and this act was not done incorrectly the first time! As teens or adults, we reaffirm our faith when we officially join the church; and we can affirm our baptism countless time throughout our lives.

One of my favorite quotes of Wesley is “baptism is neither necessary nor sufficient unto salvation.” If a baby has not been baptized and a tragedy occurs and they die, God will still receive them into his loving arms. On the other hand, baptism alone does not mean we can stop living a life of faith. This is one of those both/and statements but regardless, God’s love reigns and God claims us.  

The sacrament of Holy Communion is a repeated sacrament as we remember the last meal Jesus had with his disciples. John Wesley received the Eucharist (which means “thanksgiving”) as often as possible. It was a reassurance of God’s active presence in his life.  He believed that Holy Communion could be a “converting sacrament,” meaning one doesn’t even have to be a Christian to come to the table. As United Methodists, we practice an “Open Table” where ALL are welcome regardless of church membership, denomination, age, race, ability, sexual or gender identity,  language or class.  As I say in the invitation, “If you are open to the love and grace offered to you through the bread and cup, you are welcome at the table where Jesus is host.” What an amazing gift!  

The sacraments are outward signs of an inward grace and a vital part of our communal life together. I hope you are finding the “deep dive” into Baptism meaningful and that as we explore Holy Communion you might experience this sacrament in new ways.  

See you soon!  

Pastor Jenny