Baptism and Holy Communion - Starr Presbyterian Church

Starr Presbyterian Church of Royal Oak, MI

Baptism at Starr Presbyterian Church

Thank you for your interest in Baptism at Starr Presbyterian Church.

We welcome your inquiry, and hope that when you meet with our Pastor to discuss the service, you will understand the significance of the Sacrament of Baptism, and feel free to discuss any matters in connection with the service.

The Presbyterian Church baptizes both children and adults, as appropriate, although anyone who has been baptized in infancy or childhood may not be offered a subsequent adult Baptism. Except in very special circumstances, Baptisms are held as part of one of the services of worship at the church as required by the Presbyterian Church (USA)'s Book of Order (W-2.3011a).

There is no "correct" age for Baptism - much depends on the circumstances in each case. The Baptism of a child or infant is intended to signify God's love of the child, and express the parents' undertaking that the child will have a Christian upbringing which will normally lead to membership of the church when the child reaches the age at which this is appropriate to his/her Christian development. The Baptism of adults is normally associated with commitment to the Christian faith and is usually part of the process of becoming a member of the church, and of taking one's place in the life of the church. Many adults will find the opportunity for Baptism arising - if they were not baptized earlier - during church membership meetings as the person prepares to take the vows of church membership. It may also take place at other times, as appropriate, but Baptism should never be thought of as outside the context of membership of Christ's church.

Communion at Starr Presbyterian Church

What we believe about the Lord's Supper:

"The Lord's Supper is the sign and seal of eating and drinking in communion with the crucified and risen Lord. During his earthly ministry, Jesus shared meals with his followers as a sign of community and acceptance and as an occasion for his own ministry." (Book of Order W-2.4001a)

Around the Table of the Lord, God's people are in communion with Christ and with all who belong to Christ. Reconciliation with Christ compels reconciliation with one another. All the baptized faithful are to be welcomed to the Table, and none shall be excluded because of race, sex, age, economic status, social class, handicapping condition, difference of culture or language, or any barrier created by human injustice. Coming to the Lord's Table the faithful are actively to seek reconciliation in every instance of conflict or division between them and their neighbors. (Book of Order W-2.4006)

The Lord's Supper is to be observed on the Lord's Day, in the regular place of worship, and in a manner suitable to the particular occasion and local congregation. It is appropriate to celebrate the Lord's Supper as often as each Lord's Day. It is to be celebrated regularly and frequently enough to be recognized as integral to the Service for the Lord's Day. (Book of Order W-2.4009)

The invitation to the Lord's Supper is extended to all who have been baptized, remembering that access to the Table is not a right conferred upon the worthy, but a privilege given to the undeserving who come in faith, repentance, and love. In preparing to receive Christ in this Sacrament, the believer is to confess sin and brokenness, to seek reconciliation with God and neighbor, and to trust in Jesus Christ for cleansing and renewal. Even one who doubts or whose trust is wavering may come to the Table in order to be assured of God's love and grace in Christ Jesus. (Book of Order W-2.4011a)