Our Statement of Beliefs (Charis Commitment to Common Identity) states the following regarding communion and baptism:
We affirm that Jesus Christ gave ordinances to the church:
- Baptism testifies to the reality of our salvation and identifies us as disciples of the Triune God. We therefore encourage the practice of triune immersion.
- Communion testifies to our justification, sanctification, and glorification, which are accomplished through Jesus Christ. We therefore encourage the practice of these symbols: the bread and cup, the washing of feet, and the sharing of a meal.
The documents provided on this page are additional resources that provide some history and context for the ordinances of baptism and communion as practiced in Charis Fellowship churches. They were written by Charis Fellowship pastors for the purpose of educating and encouraging the churches within the Charis Fellowship.
Could it be Three?: Investigating Baptism by Trine Immersion By Tim Hodge
This short resource was written by Tim Hodge, Charis Fellowship coordinator. It focuses on the practice of baptism and presents discussion on the validity and historical significance of the practice of Trine Immersion, while also raising valid questions about some of the more familiar and well-known baptism practices.
A Comprehensive Ordinance: A Biblical, Theological, and Formational Case for Threefold Communion by Zac Hess
This thesis was written by Zac Hess, lead pastor at Grace Polaris Church in Columbus Ohio, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Master of Theology degree at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary. This paper looks at the biblical evidence, theological symbolism, and formational benefit of practicing Threefold Communion.
Dividing Waters: Investigating Baptism and Rebaptism by Tim Hodge
This short resource was written by Tim Hodge, Charis Fellowship coordinator. Its goal is to help Christians investigate and evaluate the foundations on which their beliefs and practices are based regarding baptism. By looking at the Bible’s teaching, along with the influencing factors from church history, we can learn much about these issues. This brief look at baptism and rebaptism can help the reader think about and honestly evaluate personal beliefs and attitudes towards those who hold differing views.