Baptists (evangelical Denominations And Independent Baptist Churches)

Baptists recognize the ordinances of baptism and the Lord's Supper. Baptism is an act of public declaration, and those making this profession are immersed in a lake, river, or baptismal tank. The Lord's Supper is observed ten to fifteen times a year. Congregations exercise some latitude in their observance of these ordinances. Most evangelical Baptist churches are careful to never use the word sacraments. The word is somehow equated with nonevangelical groups. Baptists believe that the sacraments confer no means of grace as is believed in the more ancient branches of Christendom. Baptists instead embrace two ordinances: baptism and the Lord's Supper. Both are viewed as important reminders of our faith. Baptism is never a private experience-rather it is a public declaration. The decision to be baptized is made by the Christian adult, never by his or her parents. Most evangelical Baptists regard baptism not as a statement of covenant theology and promises made by parents and congrega…