Sacraments
Spirituality
The Four Needs
The great majority of Christian churches celebrate the sacraments, which are often defined as “an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace.” Differing traditions accept different sacraments. As of 1439 A.D., Roman Catholic Christians accept seven: baptism, confirmation, holy communion, penance, extreme unction (last rites), orders (ordination), and matrimony; most Protestants, two-baptism and holy communion. Among Protestants the Salvation Army does not regularly celebrate any sacraments, but will do so if asked. The Quakers do not celebrate tangible sacraments, but believe in spiritual baptism and spiritual communion.
As Lutheran Christians we believe the sacraments — baptism and the Lord’s Supper — are key to God creating and strengthening faith within us.
The many ways sacraments are celebrated still speak to one truth: God graciously nurtures our faith through visible means.
To sacramentalize is to make sacred, which is God’s business. Congregations can create an atmosphere of the sacred by reminding people of the assurance of God’s presence in the sacraments.
