Baptisms
What is Baptism?
On selected Sundays throughout the year, our community at Christ Church includes the Sacrament of Baptism in morning worship. Baptism is the sign and seal of God’s grace and covenant in Christ.
“You did not choose me but I chose you.”
John 15:16, (NSRV)
The baptism of children witnesses to the truth that God’s love claims people before they are able to respond in faith. Our congregation, on behalf of the whole church, assumes responsibility for nurturing the baptized children in the Christian life. For this reason the congregation makes such a promise during the service. The baptism of those who enter the covenant upon their own profession of faith witnesses to the truth that God’s gift of grace calls for fulfillment in a response of faithfulness.
As The Book of Order of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) explains, baptism signifies the faithfulness of God, the washing away of sin, rebirth, putting on the fresh garment of Christ, and adoption into the covenant family of the church.
“Do you not know that all of us who have been baptized into Christ Jesus were baptized into his death? Therefore we have been buried with him by baptism into death, so that, just as Christ was raised for the dead by the glory of the Father, so we too might walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:3-4, (NSRV)
Baptism At Christ Church
In preparation for baptism, parents must fulfill two requirements: at least one parent should be a member of Christ Church and active in the life, worship and mission of the congregation; and, both parents must arrange to meet with one of the pastors to discuss the meaning and purpose of baptism. The pastors ask that all parents read After Baptism, Shaping the Christian Life, by John P. Burgess. The book is available in the church office.
“Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.”
Matthew 19:14 (NRSV)
For dates and more information, please contact the church office, 330.456.8113.
