Sunday worship; no Sabbatarian theology; liturgical calendar observed
The New Apostolic Church does not teach or practice Sabbatarian theology. The church observes Sunday as the Lord's Day and as the primary day of worship and the celebration of Holy Communion. This follows the ancient Christian tradition, based on the understanding that Christ rose on the first day of the week and that Sunday commemorates this resurrection.
The church does not obligate members to observe Saturday Sabbath rest or to refrain from work on Saturday. The NAC's liturgical calendar is organized around the weekly Sunday worship and the celebration of major Christian festivals (Christmas, Easter, Pentecost). There is no special religious significance accorded to Saturday.
The NAC's Sunday worship includes the celebration of the three sacraments (when appropriate), preaching, and spiritual instruction. Members are expected to attend Sunday services and to participate in the sacramental life of the church. This Sunday-focused worship is consistent with mainstream Christian practice and differentiates the NAC from Seventh-day Sabbatarian movements.
Key Distinctions
- Day observed:
- Sunday
- Observance theology:
- Sunday worship; no Sabbatarian theology
- Binding on christians:
- Sunday attendance expected
Scripture References
Sources
- NAC liturgical practice
- Christian tradition on Sunday worship