Baptism
Learn More About Baptism
What is Baptism?
Baptism is 3 key things:
Baptism is awesome! We come together with the newest members of our family and celebrate their decision to walk with Jesus.
It's the first step Jesus asked us to take when he invited us to walk with him.
Baptism is a symbol. It’s meant to show the world that that you love, trust, and have put your hope in Christ. It’s like a wedding ring!
With water baptism, we follow Jesus' example and obey His command. It’s a public declaration of what Jesus has done in the believer’s life, and represents two powerful truths.
1. Jesus’ own death, burial, and resurrection for our sins. The Bible says, “The payment for sin is death.” Jesus took all our sins on Himself and died on the cross to pay the penalty for our sins. Going down in the water symbolizes Jesus’ death and burial, and the washing away of all our sins–past, present, and future–by His blood.
2. The death of our old-life to sin and raising of our new-life in Christ. When we go down in the water, we are proclaiming to heaven, earth, and hell, “My old life is gone. As Christ was buried, I am burying my old sin nature, bad habits; and past hurts, failures, and mistakes. From now on, I am dead to sin, my past, and the world’s ways.” When we come out of the water, we are proclaiming, “I am a new person with a new life in Jesus.” 2 Corinthians 5:17 says, “So, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; look, all things are new.” Coming up from the water symbolizes Jesus’ resurrection, in which He overcame sin and death so that you can have eternal life in Him.
When Should I Be Baptized?
As soon as you believe!
“Those who believed...were baptized...that day!” Acts 2:41
“Then Philip began with the scripture and told him the Good News about Jesus. As they traveled along the road, they came to some water, and the man said, ‘Look, here is water! Why shouldn’t I be baptized right now?’ Philip said, ‘If you believe with all your heart, you may.’ The man answered, ‘I believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God.’ So they went down into the water and Philip baptized him.” Acts 8:35-38
Get Baptized
Where do I sign up to be Baptized?
Fill out the form on this page, and someone from our Baptism Team, will be in touch.
Can my family be baptized together?
Yes! If each family member understands the meaning of baptism fully, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. Young children who wish to be baptized are asked to meet with our Minister of Children for a pre-baptism conversation.
However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting for other family members to accept Christ, particularly children. This puts undue pressure on them and delays your obedience.
What should I wear when I am baptized?
Women/Girls should wear shorts and a top like a t-shirt in a dark color–a swimsuit could be worn underneath. Men/Boys are the same. Just be comfortable. Be sure to bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. If you forget a towel, we always have some available.
Will I have to say anything?
No. At the beginning of the service, Pastor Michael will briefly explain the meaning of baptism. You will wait for your turn to be baptized. Pastor Michael or another pastor will introduce you, ask you a couple of questions, then briefly lower you just under the water, and then you can leave the water, dry off, and watch the others. Later you will be mailed a certificate of your baptism. We encourage you to invite all your relatives and friends to attend your baptism.
Other Details
Baptisms are held every 4th Sunday of the month and you can always go to the Next Steps Table to get more information or Sign up with the Baptism Form to the Right. For any questions, please email our Baptism Team by clicking here.