Sacraments

Sacraments

Like most Protestant denominations, the United Church of Christ recognizes two sacraments: Baptism and Communion.

Baptism
Baptism at HCC celebrates one’s belonging to the family of God. Parents and the congregation give thanks to God for the gift of new life in the community of faith. We give witness to the fact that we are related to this person and have a responsibility for his or her growth in faith. Through water at baptism, God embraces you — no matter who you are — and brings you into Christ’s Church. You become vital not only to Hingham Congregational Church, but the wider Church. You share in the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. The church also promises to love, support, and care for you throughout your whole life. Baptized, you now participate fully in life of the Church and God’s realm. Although infant baptism is typically celebrated at HCC, people of all ages can receive the sacrament of baptism.

Communion
Communion is also a sacrament that celebrates our identity and calling. For in this sacrament we are reminded of our identity as a member of the body of Christ, the Church. We receive our Lord’s gift of himself, his life, his love and forgiveness in order that we may live this gift and be his body in the world. Communion is a sacrament of love.  It is an offer from Christ: to share life with us, to share ministry with us. At HCC we believe in an open table, this is God’s table not ours, all are welcome.