First Presbyterian
Church of Natchez
Sacraments
Baptism
Presbyterian Church (USA) describes the sacrament of Baptism as follows:
Baptism signifies:
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the faithfulness of God,
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the washing away of sin,
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rebirth,
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putting on the fresh garment of Christ,
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being sealed by God's Spirit,
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adoption into the covenant family of the Church,
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resurrection and illumination in Christ.
Unlike some denominations, Presbyterians do not require a person to be entirely immersed in water during baptism. Baptism is received only once. Its effect is not tied to the moment when it is administered, for it signifies the beginning of life in Christ, not its completion. The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) believes that persons of other denominations are part of one body of Christian believers; therefore, it recognizes and accepts baptisms by other Christian churches.
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Baptism is almost always administered as part of a worship service. In the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), baptism must be authorized by the session of a particular congregation and performed by a minister.
For more information about Baptism at the First Presbyterian Church of Natchez, contact the Church Office.
Communion
Our Invitation to Communion
In the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper, God offers us continued spiritual nourishment and sustains us in the communion of the body of Christ. Christians have differing names for this holy meal, but all of these signify the one Sacrament. It is sometimes called the Lord’s Supper. It is sometimes called the Breaking of Bread. It is sometimes called Holy Communion. It is sometimes called the Eucharist or thanksgiving. In the sacramental action designated by all these names, the Word of God, Jesus Christ, is exhibited and really, spiritually present to all believers. All Christians who trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are invited to share in Holy Communion. Children are invited to receive the Sacrament if they have been prepared by their parents and have sufficient understanding of the Sacrament. It is the custom at First Presbyterian Church to hold the elements until all are served and then partake together
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