Sunday will be a special day at CVBC. We will observe the Ordinance of the Lord’s Supper and Ordain three new deacons.
We observe the Lord’s Supper quarterly on the first Sunday of January, April, July and October. Everyone who has received Christ into their life is invited to participate in the Lord’s Supper.
Gathering at the Lord’s table we reflect upon his death on the cross to save us from our sins. We believe that Christ took upon Himself the punishment that we deserve for our sin and rebellion. We believe that Christ was without sin and therefore was fully qualified to die on our behalf.
The bread is a symbol of Christ’s body. We speak of Christ’s body broken for us. Although there is no record of Christ experiencing broken bones, the beatings that he received, the nails driven into his hands and feet, the physical pain, the emotional strain, the spear being thrust into His side after he had expired are all symbols of brokenness. The cup (fruit of the vine) is a symbol of Christ’s blood. We believe as the Bible states that “without the shedding of blood there is no remission of sin” (Hebrews 9:22). Prior to Jesus death on the cross, it was the custom to sacrifice animals as a sin offering to God. But Hebrews 10:4 says, “It is impossible for the blood of bulls and goats to take away sins.” Speaking of Christ, Hebrews 7:27 says, “He sacrificed for their sins once for all when he offered himself.” By acknowledging our sins, repenting of our sins and asking God to forgive us and by receiving Christ into our lives by faith, we receive the salvation that is offered to us. As were partake of the Lord’s supper, we are reminded of the price that Christ paid for our sins. And as Jesus said, “… whenever you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes.” (1 Corinthians 11:26)
Ordination is the process of setting apart individuals for specific leadership within the church. It is a rite usually reserved for those who have been called by God into ministry or elected by the church for spiritual leadership. The Ordination of pastors or deacons is a means of bestowing blessings, responsibilities and authority upon men and women who have proven themselves as spiritual leaders. The high moment of Ordination comes when members of the ordaining church, in reverence, lay their hands on the candidate as a symbol of support and spiritual blessing. On October 1, we will be ordaining three new Deacons to the office of Deacon.
We look forward to seeing you Sunday.
In His Love, Charles
