Sacraments
Baptism
Baptism is one of two sacraments in the United Church of Christ. “The sacrament of baptism is an outward and visible sign of the grace of God. And inasmuch as the promise of the Gospel is not only to us but also to our children, baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the mark of their acceptance into the care of Christ’s Church, the sign and seal of their participation in God’s forgiveness, and the beginning of their growth into full Christian faith and discipleship.” These words begin the order for the sacrament of baptism in our United Church of Christ Book of Worship.
As a congregation of the United Church of Christ, “We believe that all of the baptized ‘belong body and soul to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.’ No matter who—no matter what—no matter where we are on life’s journey—notwithstanding race, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, class or creed—we all belong to God and to one worldwide community of faith. All persons baptized—past, present and future—are connected to each other and to God through the sacrament of baptism. We baptize during worship when the community is present because baptism includes the community’s promise of ‘love, support and care’ for the baptized—and we promise that we won’t take it back—no matter where your journey leads you.”
While we most often baptize infants, anyone who comes to join with us in membership at whatever age—from Confirmation on—is invited to receive the sacrament of baptism if they have not already received it as an infant or young child.
Communion
Holy Communion is one of two sacraments recognized in our Protestant tradition. It is a feast of love, justice and unity. The Lord’s Supper is the central symbol of the intimate relationship we share with Jesus Christ. The United Church of Christ proclaims that “all people of faith are invited to join Christ at Christ’s table for the sacrament of Communion. Just as many grains of wheat are gathered to make one loaf of bread and many grapes are gathered to make one cup of wine, we, the many people of God, are made one in the body of Christ, the church. The breaking of bread and the pouring of wine reminds us of the costliness of Christ’s sacrifice and the discipleship to which we are all called. In the breaking of bread, we remember and celebrate Christ’s presence among us along with a ‘cloud of witnesses’—our ancestors, family and friends who have gone before us. It is a great mystery; we claim it by faith.”
We usually celebrate Holy Communion the first Sunday of every month. We often gather at the Lord’s Table on Ash Wednesday and always on Maundy Thursday, Easter Sunday, and Christmas Eve. We believe in and celebrate an Open Table, where all are welcome. Christ extends the invitation; we simply provide the elements—bread and the fruit of the vine. Christ blesses these simple elements and us as we share them as one body in His name.
Weddings
Weddings are joyous occasions for the worship of God; we believe that when you know love, you know God. So whoever you are, wherever you are on life’s journey, you are welcome to get married here! We want to celebrate with you the love of God you have discovered in one another.
Funerals
It is an incredible honor to celebrate the life of one who has graced our lives. As an Easter people following Jesus the Christ, we believe in life everlasting. We help you prepare to celebrate the life of your loved one with a special worship service where we will proclaim the promises of God to those who die and are raised in Jesus Christ.
Kent United Church of Christ
1400 E. Main Street
Kent, Ohio 44240
(330) 673-9534
office@kentucc.org
OFFICE HOURS
Regular Office Hours
Mon–Fri 9:00 am–4:00 pm
Summer Office Hours
Mon–Fri 9:00 am–2:00 pm
