Baptism is not a private act of individuals but an act of the Church on behalf of God. Baptism is a sign of "the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ." Grace means unmerited, unearned favor; it means freely given love. The fundamental truth of the gospel is that "God loved us first." Baptism is also the act of entrance into the Christian fellowship. By baptism we are initiated into Christ's Holy Church and marked as disciples (learners and followers) of Jesus Christ.

For infants and children, baptism recognizes that they are born into the brokenness of the world and are in need of God's grace to help them throughout the journey of their lifetime.

While youth and adults consciously profess the Christian faith, parents and godparents of baptized children promise to nurture them in that faith so that they can come to claim it as their own. Baptism brings a child into preparatory membership in the church. Baptism of an adult is typically followed by entry into full church membership by Profession of Faith. Scheduling a Baptism

All baptisms are celebrated during either of the two regular worship services on Sunday mornings. An infant's baptism usually takes place when the child is about three months old, but any age is acceptable. Soon after the birth or adoption of a child, parents are encouraged to call the church office to schedule the child's baptism and an appointment to talk to the officiating pastor to discuss the specifics of the service.

Youth and adults may receive Christian baptism after meeting with one of our pastors. These baptisms are usually scheduled on a "New Member Sunday" or at the time of Confirmation, though other times are acceptable also.

Baptisms are not scheduled on Easter or on Communion Sundays at the Late Service, and may be discouraged at services when the sacrament would be lost in the midst of other celebrations. For more information about baptism, contact either of our pastors.