The two most widely accepted sacraments are Baptism and the Eucharist or Holy Communion , however, the majority of Christians also recognize five additional sacraments: Confirmation Chrismation in the Orthodox tradition , Holy Orders, Confession, Anointing of the Sick , and Matrimony.
Most other denominations and traditions typically affirm only Baptism and Eucharist as sacraments, while some Protestant groups, such as the Quakers, reject sacramental theology. Most Protestant Christian denominations that believe these rites do not communicate grace prefer to call them ordinances. Baptism is the ritual act, with the use of water, by which a person is admitted to membership of the Church. Beliefs on baptism vary among denominations.
Firstly, differences occur on whether the act has any spiritual significance. This view is held by Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches, as well as Lutherans and Anglicans, while others simply acknowledge it as a purely symbolic act, an external public declaration of the inward change which has taken place in the person.
Secondly, there are differences of opinion on the methodology of the act. These methods being: Baptism by Immersion; if immersion is total, Baptism by Submersion; and Baptism by Affusion pouring , and Baptism by Aspersion sprinkling. Those who hold the first view may also adhere to the tradition of Infant Baptism. Elsewhere in the New Testament this same freedom of access to God is also emphasized [Phil. This confident position should be understood in light of Christian belief in the unique relationship between the believer and Christ through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
In subsequent Christian traditions, certain physical gestures are emphasized, including medieval gestures, such as genuflection or making the sign of the cross.
Kneeling, bowing and prostrations are often practiced in more traditional branches of Christianity. Frequently in Western Christianity the hands are placed palms together and forward as in the feudal commendation ceremony.
At other times the older orant posture may be used, with palms up and elbows in. Intercessory prayer is prayer offered for the benefit of other people. There are many intercessory prayers recorded in the Bible, including prayers of the Apostle Peter on behalf of sick persons [Acts ] and by prophets of the Old Testament in favor of other people [1Ki —22].
In the New Testament book of James no distinction is made between the intercessory prayer offered by ordinary believers and the prominent Old Testament prophet Elijah [Jam —18]. The effectiveness of prayer in Christianity derives from the power of God rather than the status of the one praying. The ancient church, in both Eastern Christianity and Western Christianity, developed a tradition of asking for the intercession of deceased saints, and this remains the practice of most Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and some Anglican churches.
Churches of the Protestant Reformation however rejected prayer to the saints, largely on the basis of the sole mediatorship of Christ. The reformer, Huldrych Zwingli, admitted that he had offered prayers to the saints until his reading of the Bible convinced him that this was idolatrous.
Privacy Policy. Skip to main content. Module 7: Christianity. Search for:. Symbols, Scriptures, and Rituals Symbols The cross , which is today one of the most widely recognized symbols in the world, was used as a Christian symbol from the earliest times. Death and Afterlife Most Christians believe that human beings experience divine judgment and are rewarded either with eternal life or eternal damnation.
Intercessory Prayer Intercessory prayer is prayer offered for the benefit of other people. Licenses and Attributions. Published by Austen Fletcher Modified over 6 years ago.
Read the review? Why are they important in celebrating the sacraments? Give an example of each type of action. Rituals are symbolic actions that help us physically express our beliefs, values,and deepest concerns. Write about a celebration you know of or have participated in that involved rituals. Include a discussion of the meaning behind the rituals-why were they a part of the celebration? All rituals involve actions. Not all actions are rituals Actions that are performed only for specific, practical purposes are not rituals.
For Example….. And we do it often! For example: Eating is a practical action but when we add Grace before meals this brief ritual reminds us of the gift of food and the beauty of sharing it with family, friends. Rituals, when done attentively, can tell us who we are and lead us to who who we will be. For example: The pledge of allegiance or prayers before class, even a Pep Fest! The rituals we participate in tell us and others our values. Almost the same…but NOT. Write a brief description of a ritual in which you have often participated.
Express what you get out of that ritual. Does it still have meaning for you,or has it become routine? Theatre, sports, dance Rituals are symbolic actions that speak to and for people.
Choose a holiday, an induction ceremony,a club meeting,or a sporting event and jot down all the rituals and symbols associated with it. Characteristics of Rituals Pg. List the 8 characteristics of rituals and give an example of each. They are worth doing more than once. What are some ritual actions that you repeat in your life, family, church, with friends?
Think of a fiesta or a birthday party. They are Not just symbolic actions;they become symbolic celebrations. Not just about fun, most celebrations also have their serious side.
For example: the Olympic Games. Rituals celebrate special occasions. List five special events in your life either personal or communal along with the rituals associated with each event. What special words are said? They remind us of who we are and who we hope to be. What do they tell us about ourselves?
That is, we do them together. They may involve a large group. People come together to celebrate being a community with a common identity. What are some communal actions that you have participated in? Not just spectators but participants Have you ever been to a ritual that you did not understand? What would that be like? IF a ritual is to have any meaning for us we must be able to enter into it wholeheartedly.
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