Baptism and Dedications
At Connections Church, we understand baptism as a sign and seal of God’s covenant promises, given not only to adult believers but also to their children. In keeping with our Reformed theological convictions, we encourage parents to present their children for baptism as an expression of God’s initiating grace and the child’s inclusion in the covenant community.
Within our corporate worship, we observe the sacraments of baptism and the Lord’s Supper as central acts of the church’s life together. At the same time, we recognize that families may be at different points in their understanding and discernment. For those not yet prepared to pursue baptism, we offer a child dedication in a pastoral setting outside of the worship service to recognize the role of parents in the spiritual formation of their children and to encourage further understanding of our covenantal life in Christ. If you would like to discuss the possibility of baptism, please contact our pastor.
Marriage and Human Sexuality
At Connections Church, we believe that every person is created in the image of God and is loved by Him. We seek to welcome all people with the grace and truth of Jesus Christ. At the same time, we affirm the historic Christian teaching that marriage is a lifelong covenant between one man and one woman and that sexual intimacy is a gift from God intended for this covenant relationship. While we desire to walk alongside everyone in faith and discipleship, our teaching on marriage and sexuality reflects this biblical understanding and therefore we do not affirm same-sex marriage or sexual relationships outside of marriage. If you would like to learn more about our beliefs or discuss this further, please contact our pastor.
Women in Ecclesiastical Office
At Connections Church, we affirm that God calls both women and men to serve in every aspect of the church’s life and leadership. In keeping with our understanding of Scripture and the position of our denomination, we support the ordination of women as ministers, elders, deacons, and commissioned pastors.
We believe the Holy Spirit equips all believers with gifts for ministry, and we are committed to recognizing, developing, and deploying those gifts without distinction. Accordingly, women at Connections Church are encouraged and supported to serve fully in ecclesiastical office as part of our shared calling to lead, shepherd, and build up the body of Christ. For further information regarding women in ecclesiastical office, please contact our pastor.