What does Calvary believe about the sacraments?

The Bible teaches two sacraments; the Lord’s Supper and Baptism. All those who receive Jesus as Lord are to be baptized as well as their children. We do not indiscriminately baptize infants, only the children of believing church members. This type of baptism is known as Covenant Baptism. Just as children in the Old Testament received circumcision as a sign of participation in the Old Covenant, children of believing parents have a portion in the New Covenant (cf. Acts 2:38-39, Colossians 2:11-12). However, a child is not saved just because he has been baptized. Rather, baptism is a sign that the child has the privilege of enjoying the external blessings of the Covenant, (i.e., he can hear the preaching of the Word, receive Christian training and nurturing from his parents and church etc.). When a child is old enough to express saving faith in Christ, he is examined by the elders and then admitted to the Lord’s Supper. Only baptized believers who are members in good standing of an evangelical church may receive communion.

  

BAPTISM
Calvary's Baptism Policy follows the guidelines of the denomination, which is the Presbyterian Church in America. Adults who wish to be baptized must complete a five week new member's class, be interviewed by the Session and present a credible profession of faith. For infant children to be baptized, at least one parent must be a member of Calvary, meaning they have fulfilled the above requirements for adult baptism. If an individual has already been baptized in another evangelical church then there is no need for that person to be rebaptized and Calvary would refuse to do so. If you have any questions or concerns you are free to contact the pastor to learn about the Biblical basis for these criterion.