​The Sacraments of Baptism and Communion

In the United Church of Canada, we observe two sacraments -- baptism and the Lord's Supper or Communion. We believe that these were instituted by Christ in scripture (Matthew 28 and Matthew 26, Mark 14 and Luke 22 respectively), and that they point to the grace and love of God.

Baptism: In Baptism we celebrate that God claims us as God's own, and forgives us of our sins even before we can ask for forgiveness. The physical act of putting water on an individual's forehead recognizes the work that God has already begun through the Holy Spirit of making that person a new being in Christ. Baptism marks the beginning of a journey of faith, and the congregation plays an important role in promising to nurture the baby or individual being baptized in the Christian faith. We believe in one universal baptism, meaning that if someone is baptized in another church, they do not need to be re-baptized to be a part of the United Church. People of all ages are welcome to contact the pastor regarding baptism. Older children or adults being baptized make professions of faith on their own, while parents of infants make the professions on behalf of their children. Because baptism marks the entry into a community of faith, we encourage you to get to know this community before proceeding with baptism since we would like to be a part of your life and your children's life throughout the years.
Read our baptism policy here.

The Lord's Supper: At St. Paul's we generally celebrate the Lord's Supper the first Sunday of the month as well as special occasions. In this meal, we remember Christ's death, celebrate his resurrection, and look forward to his coming again as we give thanks for God's forgiving love. We provide bread, gluten free wafers and non-alcoholic grape juice for this sacrament. All, including children, who desire to encounter the love of Christ are welcome to eat the bread and drink the juice.