Sacraments are liturgical practices that express God’s redemptive love through tangible ways. Within the Presbyterian tradition, there are two sacraments: baptism and communion.
Baptism
Baptism is a covenant with multiple commitments: God’s commitment to us, the faith community’s commitment to the one being baptized, and the commitments that families make to God, their children, and to the church. When we baptize an individual (typically, but not always, an infant or young child), we are proclaiming that they are claimed by God and recipients of God’s unconditional grace.
If you would like to know more about baptism or schedule a baptism for your child, contact Nancy Myer, Staff Associate for Children’s Ministries, (nancy@upcch.org or 919-929-2102).
Communion
Communion, or the Lord’s Supper, is the sign and seal of our communion with Christ. Through communion, we give thanks to God, remember Christ’s sacrifice, invoke the Holy Spirit, and recommit ourselves to love and serve God and one another. The elements offered are grape juice and bread (nut-free and gluten-free).
Communion is offered on the first Sunday of the month. We offer communion via intinction (dipping a piece of bread into a common cup of juice). Communion is open to all; there are no barriers of belief or lifestyle that exclude anyone. That said, no one is obligated to receive the sacrament.
Home Communion
Several times a year, UPC Elders and Deacons visit members of the church at home to share the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper together. If you or someone you know would like to be included in the next time we offer home communion, contact Hadley Kifner.
Frequently Asked Questions about Home Communion:
Must I be “homebound” to receive extended communion?
No. We recognize that many are able to attend Sunday morning services, but there are times and situations when that can be a challenge.
What if I haven’t attended church recently?
No explanation regarding your recent attendance is necessary. We would like to offer this ministry to anyone who wishes to receive the sacrament even if you have not attended church in months or years.
What if I live in a retirement community, assisted living or long-term care facility?
We are happy to make a visit to your facility or community.
What should I do to prepare for a visit?
Beyond preparing your heart for our visit, absolutely nothing is necessary. In other words, please do not feel the need to clean or prepare.
What can I expect during our visit, and how long will it last?
A pair of deacons/elders will visit, and visits range in time. But you can expect 20 minutes to one hour on average.
What if a caregiver or family member lives with me?
They are certainly invited to receive the sacrament, as well, and we hope they will join us!