Full sacramental theology in Catholic streams; ordinances in Protestant
Catholic, Orthodox, and sacramental Protestant charismatics affirm the full sacramental life of their respective traditions, with baptism, Eucharist, and other rites as means of grace. In the Catholic Charismatic Renewal, charismatic experience is integrated into sacramental practice rather than replacing it. Independent and evangelical charismatics typically observe baptism and the Lord's Supper as ordinances without a sacramental theology of grace.
A notable charismatic practice is 'healing prayer' as a quasi-sacramental act: the laying on of hands, anointing with oil, and prayer for healing are central rites in many charismatic communities, even where formal sacramentalism is rejected. This practice bridges some of the gap between sacramental and non-sacramental traditions.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- ordinances (most common)
- Sacrament count:
- two (Water Baptism and Lord's Supper); Spirit baptism as distinct experience
- Baptism mode:
- immersion
- Baptism recipients:
- believers only
- Eucharist presence:
- symbolic memorial; spiritual encounter emphasized
Scripture References
Sources
- Catholic Charismatic Renewal International Service (ICCRS)
- International Charismatic Consultation on World Evangelization