Two sacraments; baptism by sprinkling; spiritual presence in Lord's Supper; closed table
The PCA affirms two sacraments (also called ordinances): baptism and the Lord's Supper. These are signs and seals of God's covenant promises but do not confer grace automatically (ex opere operato). Grace is received through faith in the promises of God signified in the sacraments.
Baptism is administered by sprinkling (aspersion) or pouring (affusion), not exclusively by immersion. The PCA practices infant baptism (paedobaptism), believing that children of believing parents are members of the covenant community and may receive the sign and seal of membership. Baptism is unrepeatable and a once-for-all sign of initiation.
The Lord's Supper is a memorial meal and spiritual participation in Christ's sacrifice. The PCA teaches spiritual presence—that believers partake of Christ's body and blood spiritually through faith—rejecting both Roman transubstantiation and bare memorialism. The Table is observed regularly and is restricted to members in good standing, reflecting Reformed concern for proper order and discipline.
Key Distinctions
- Term used:
- Sacraments (though ordinances used interchangeably)
- Sacrament count:
- Two: baptism and Lord's Supper
- Baptism mode:
- Sprinkling or pouring; immersion not required
- Baptism recipients:
- Believers and their infant children (paedobaptism)
- Eucharist presence:
- Spiritual presence through faith; not transubstantiation
Scripture References
Sources
- Westminster Confession of Faith XXVIII-XXIX
- Heidelberg Catechism Q&A 67