What Is Baptism?
Baptism is water and the words of Jesus. In baptism we are claimed for Jesus Christ. It is a holy moment in which someone is welcomed into our local congregation and the worldwide Christian church. It is a time when the Holy Spirit does something special. The ancient word “baptidzo” means “wash”. The water reminds us of the new life that comes from Christ’s death and resurrection. Although some churches vary the method of baptism, it is the same gift in all churches that believe in Jesus Christ. So it’s not about being baptised “Lutheran”, it is about entering the ‘Body Of Christ’.
Who Can Be Baptised?
We baptise people of all ages. We often baptise adults. But one of the craziest things about Lutheran Christians is that we baptise children! We don’t ask if they comprehend. We don’t wait for them to be worthy. We just welcome them because Jesus welcomed them (Mark 10:13-16). When we do this we show that God’s grace is for all and is not dependent on our maturity. But in baptising children we also make another audacious statement. By baptising children we declare that they are NOT the church of the future. They are members of the Body of Christ right now (Gal 3:26).
Baptism For Adults And Teens
If you are thinking of getting baptised we are excited for you! We’d like to find a small group of people to support you as you prepare as you meet with our pastor. They can be friends, family, or anyone you respect!
Baptism For Babies And Children
Before you can come for a baptism you need to meet with our pastor. Because baptism is a huge gift from God we don’t take it lightly. Because of grace (God’s unconditional love for sinners) we don’t say “no” to requests for baptism. But a natural part of Baptism is learning about Jesus and following him in your life.
When And Where Do We Baptise?
Because it’s about being welcomed into the Christian community, we usually baptise at a worship service of the church. You are welcome to work out a date with Pastor.
What Are Godparents?
In the Christian church godparents take a spiritual role in helping a young person grow in faith. This can’t be done unless Godparents themselves have an alive faith in Christ. So it’s important for godparents to be learning about Christ and growing spiritually. If you’ve been asked to be a godparent, then this is a call from God to develop your faith! When an adult gets baptised (perhaps this is you?) they also publicly declare their faith and promise to follow Christ. When a child is being baptised we ask parents and godparents to promise that they will help the child learn of Jesus and guide them towards the ‘confirmation’ of their faith. The baptism promises mean that you will include Christ in your everyday life and relationships. They include bringing the child to worship to learn and grow in faith.
What The Bible Says About Baptism:
Matthew 28:18-20
Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
1 Peter 3:20-21
In Noah’s ark only eight people were saved from drowning in the flood. And this is a symbol of baptism, which now saves you by the power of Jesus Christ’s resurrection. Baptism is not a removal of dirt from your body; it is a clean conscience before God.
Romans 6:4-5
We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we too may live a new life. If we have been united with him like this in his death, we will certainly also be united with him in his resurrection.