Communion
Communion is a sacrament in the church. It is a way in which we encounter the holiness of God in ordinary elements of bread and juice.
At Bethel, we practice communion every Sunday at an open table. This means all are invited to come forward to receive the elements, regardless of church membership, background, or identity.
We believe that the Eucharist is a means of grace. Therefore, in the elements of bread and juice, we receive the presence of Christ. As a church, we recite the story of God together and receive the elements.
Logistics
When it is time to receive the elements, an usher will dismiss the congregation row by row, starting from the back, to be served at the front of the sanctuary. If you choose not to partake, you may simply remain seated. Children who join their family in line will be offered the elements. If you prefer that your child does not partake, just indicate to the server who will say a blessing over them instead.
At Bethel, we serve communion in two ways, by intinction or through pre-packaged elements. Please choose the means through which you feel most comfortable.
- Intinction: One server blesses and hands you the wafer. Another server holds the cup of juice for you to dip your wafer into. You may partake as you return to your seat. This method symbolizes how we both receive God’s grace and take action to request it.
- Pre-packaged elements: The server hands you the combination wafer and juice. You may partake as you return to your seat or meditate with it for a time. A gluten-free option is also available.
Baptism
Baptism is a sacrament. Historically, baptism has been understood as the initiation into the body of Christ. God’s grace extends to all of God’s creation prior to our ability to accept that grace. This is what we affirm in baptism: God is and has been present with us even before we know anything about God.
At Bethel, we practice both infant and adult believer baptism, which represents the new covenant with God. Baptism can be done by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion. We also offer catechism and confirmation classes for adolescents to confirm their baptisms or in preparation for their baptisms.
If you are interested in baptism for yourself or a family member, please contact a member of the pastoral staff.
