Lutheran sacraments

Lutheran sacraments are special, sacred actions that are believed to come directly from God. In Lutheran tradition, these sacraments are seen as visible signs of spiritual gifts that God gives to people.

Lutherans believe that when these sacraments are done correctly—with the right physical elements and words that God commanded—God is truly present. They teach that through these sacred actions, God offers forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal salvation to anyone who receives them.

Lutherans also believe that God works within the people who receive the sacraments, helping them to accept these blessings and feel more confident that they are truly receiving God’s gift of salvation.

History

Martin Luther taught that there were three important sacred acts, called sacraments, which are baptism, confession, and the eucharist. Over time, different Lutheran leaders suggested slightly different numbers of sacraments. Some said there were three, some two, and others even listed seven. Even though the number may vary, all Lutheran churches agree that these sacred acts are special ways that God is with people.

Today, many Lutheran churches focus on three main sacraments: Holy Baptism, Holy Eucharist, and Holy Absolution (Confession). Some churches talk about only two main sacraments, Holy Baptism and Holy Eucharist, seeing Holy Absolution as part of baptism. Others list even more, including Holy Orders, Holy Matrimony, Holy Confirmation, and Holy Unction. No matter how they count them, these sacred acts are important in Lutheran worship.

Characteristics of a sacrament

In the Apology of the Augsburg Confession, sacraments are special ceremonies that follow God's instructions and include a promise of kindness. These ceremonies are important because only God can promise this kindness, and any ceremony not commanded by God cannot guarantee it, even if it is meant to teach or remind people.

Sacraments

Holy Baptism

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism is how a person starts their journey in the Christian faith. During baptism, water is used in different ways, such as pouring it over the person's head or sprinkling a few drops. Lutherans believe that through baptism, people receive a new life, forgiveness of sins, and God's promise of salvation. They also receive the faith needed to accept God's kindness. Baptism is usually done by sprinkling or pouring water while saying special words about the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Lutherans think baptism is important for salvation, but they also believe that if someone never gets the chance to be baptized, they can still find salvation because it's their attitude toward God's gifts that matters most.

Holy Eucharist

Main article: Eucharist in the Lutheran Church

The Sacrament of the Eucharist, also known as the Lord's Supper or Holy Communion, involves eating bread and drinking wine. Lutherans believe that in this bread and wine, we truly receive the Body and Blood of Christ. This belief is called the Sacramental Union.

Holy Absolution

Main article: Confession in the Lutheran Church

The third sacrament in Lutheran churches is Penance, or confession. It has two forms: a general confession done together as a church family during a service, and a private confession where an individual speaks with a pastor. In both cases, the pastor offers God's forgiveness. Private confession is a voluntary practice and not required. The church promises to keep what is shared in private confession private, respecting the confidentiality of these conversations. In Lutheran belief, Holy Absolution is connected to Holy Baptism, with a focus on the message of forgiveness.

Non-sacramental rites

Confirmation

Main article: Confirmation (Lutheran Church)

Confirmation is a special time when young people openly show their faith after learning about it for many months or even years. It is also called the "affirmation of baptism" in some places. During confirmation, people study important teachings such as the Ten Commandments, the Apostles' Creed, the Lord's Prayer, and the Lutheran sacraments of Holy Baptism, Holy Absolution, and the Eucharist. Usually, this learning process takes about one to two years.

Holy Matrimony

Holy Matrimony is seen by many as a special union between two people, with God's blessing in their lives. Some Lutheran churches also perform ceremonies for same-sex couples.

Holy Orders

Lutherans generally do not agree with the way the Catholic Church views Holy Orders, as they believe the Bible does not support that view. Martin Luther taught that everyone has an important role to play in everyday life. Today, we often call these roles "vocations." In some Lutheran churches, Holy Orders refers to bishops, priests, and deacons, and there is a special ceremony when people are ordained into these roles.

Anointing of the Sick

The Lutheran Church, like other Christian groups, uses a Bible passage from James 5:14–15 as a guide for the Anointing of the Sick. This rite includes laying on of hands and/or using oil, along with prayers.