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Baptism - Frequently Asked Questions |
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What is Baptism?
Baptism is initiation into the Christian Life, using water as a symbol. A symbol of what? The water symbolizes your new life in the service of Jesus. It says, "I belong to Jesus Christ." Why water? Water is so much a part of our everyday life and so is God. The symbolism includes Washing (forgiveness,) Birth (a new identity as an adopted child of God,) Death (you turn your back on ways that are unhealthy,) and Resurrection (God does not want tough times to defeat you.) Who gets baptized? Anyone who has never been baptized and wants to follow Jesus. We do not re-baptize. If you had a Christian baptism, we accept that. How come we baptize children, even babies? What could they possibly understand? Christianity is not about what we know but WHO we know. Everyone, including kids, needs God's love to make it through life. God wants to claim us in baptism so we can enter a new phase in our relationship to him. Children who are baptized do get a chance to make these statements for themselves when they are older. This service is called Confirmation. What are Godparents? Godparents are sponsors of the person being baptized. You can have any number, including none. Parents are always sponsors. Godparents should be people devoted to Christ and who can have an ongoing relationship to the person being baptized. This relationship is one of spiritual encouragement. Do I get dunked? Baptism needs water. How water is applied varies. We typically pour water but have done other ways depending on the wishes of those involved. Do I have to do it at a Sunday service? Yes, baptism is a public affirmation that we wish to be Christ's. Also, we rely on the help and the faith of the entire church to grow into our full Christian identity. How do I get baptized? Attend our 101-Membership Class and a Baptism Class (Call office for dates). Fill out the form necessary to enroll you in our church and pick a date. Can I have additional preparation? Yes, you will have some instruction before the service and can have a private meeting with a priest to learn more about what baptism means or what will happen. Interested in Baptism? Please contact our staff |
Baptism Documents
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