One definition of a sacrament is a means of grace that Jesus himself experienced and that he instructed us to experience. So, in the United Methodist Church, we embrace two sacraments: baptism and communion.

Baptism is identified as a means of grace because God’s grace is actually revealed through it. Baptism isn’t merely a reminder of God’s love. It is the actual experience of God’s grace. Following baptism we are different because we have encountered the unconditional love of God, love that is transforming.

The vows of baptism define the relationship that is initiated through that sacrament. As we follow our commitment to those vows we do our part in maintaining the ongoing experience of God’s grace. By following the baptism vows we are doing our part in the covenant that is initiated with God in baptism. They are guidelines for the maintenance of a sacred relationship.

The congregation joins with the parents in committing to those vows when we baptize a baby because we believe that by following those vows ourselves, we will raise that child in an atmosphere where she or he will learn to know the God of unconditional love.

On the next two Sundays three persons will be baptized. This Sunday, July 22, Nate Mallinson, son of Luke and Leslee Mallinson, will be baptized. On Sunday, July 29, Liam Hardesty, son of Tim and Rwan Hardesty will be baptized as well as his mother Rwan. So, I thought you might like to read through the vows of baptism as you prepare for the next two Sundays.

Pastor: Do you renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject

the evil powers of this world, and repent of your sin?

All: I do.

Pastor: Do you accept the power God gives you to resist evil,

injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present

themselves?

All: I do.

Pastor: Do you confess Jesus Christ as your Savior, put your whole

trust in his grace, and promise to serve him as your Lord,

in union with the Church which Christ has opened to people

of all ages, nations, and races?

All: I do.