[vmatt]

I don't think it's essential to salvation because those who participate are already disciples of Christ.

Then I would reject it on that basis alone. For me to accept any "ritual" purportedly related to the teachings for which I look to for salvation it must be proven without doubt and essential.

To me it's like baptism...do you absolutely need it to be saved? No...but you do it because you love the lord and want to do what he commands.

At the time it was taught, water baptism under John was absolutely essential to salvation. Thanks for answering and keeping a good spirit, God bless you and yours.

[DouglasKC]

I don't think it's essential to salvation because those who participate are already disciples of Christ.
Then I would reject it on that basis alone. For me to accept any "ritual" purportedly related to the teachings for which I look to for salvation it must be proven without doubt and essential.
To me it's like baptism...do you absolutely need it to be saved? No...but you do it because you love the lord and want to do what he commands.
At the time it was taught, water baptism under John was absolutely essential to salvation. Thanks for answering and keeping a good spirit, God bless you and yours.

Ditto vmatt...:-)