HOLY BAPTISM
We baptize people of any and all ages, in accord with Jesus' command to "baptize all nations." (Matthew 28.19) Parents regularly bring their newborn* to receive this Sacrament. Older children and adults are also baptized if they have not previously been baptized with water "in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."
We do not re-baptize so long as a person has been baptized correctly (with water, "in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit"). We acknowledge and respect other Christian baptisms since we are baptized into Christ (Christian), not into a specific church or denomination of the Christian faith.
Baptisms typically take place in a worship service, but on occasion, in consultation with the Pastor, a private Baptism may be arranged. There is no cost for being baptized.
* If a person has a question about infant Baptism, s/he should talk with one of our Pastors. Otherwise please read "Why Baptize Babies" by Pastor Karl
HOLY COMMUNION
Communion is a regular and important part of our worship. It is scheduled during each service on a regular basis:
- Saturdays - the Saturday before the first and third Sundays
- Sundays
- 8 a.m. – the first and third Sundays
- 9.15 a.m. – the second and fourth Sundays
- 10.30 a.m. – the second and fourth Sundays
- (Holy Communion is not celebrated on 5th Sundays.)
We believe, as the Bible teaches, that Jesus is mysteriously, but really present in the bread and wine of Holy Communion. We also believe that it is vital that those who commune recognize Jesus' Real Presence. Questions about communing at Concordia should be addressed to one of the Pastors.
Preparation for participating in Holy Communion is offered to youngsters, beginning at the fifth grade. This process is wholly initiated by the parent and child; it is not mandatory. This should be entered into only when the family is active and the child is very interested in communing.After such a child and at least one parent complete an instruction course, led by the Pastor, they may begin to commune. Otherwise, upon completion of our Confirmation instruction, young people may participate in Holy Communion.
