Baptism
Frequently Asked Questions:
Why is Baptism Important?
Baptism and Communion are sacraments, “visible words;” “sermons to the eye” that communicate spiritual realities. Sacraments (or ordinances) do not accomplish spiritual results by themselves – apart from the truth of God’s Word and the power of God’s Spirit.
Baptism is important because it marks us as Christ-followers. It is like a vow of allegiance to Christ our Lord and Leader. Baptism is like a ceremony of initiation; a “drama of our willing decision to enter into a new lifestyle based on a relationship to God through His Son.” “Baptism is an outward confession of an inward commitment to be Christ’s disciple.”
What does Baptism signify?
Washing,
Forgiveness accomplished
Identification with Christ and His Body the Church
Death, burial, and resurrection with Christ
Being sealed with the Holy Spirit – belonging to God
Who should be baptized?
Those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ as Savior from sin and death and who desire to be His fully devoted followers.
The baptism of infants of believing parents has been practiced by many devoted Christians through the centuries. The Evangelical Covenant Church in holding to the necessity of new birth in Christ and to the unity of the church, allows for both believer and infant baptism as well as infant dedication. It must be understood that this kind of infant baptism is not a substitute for personal faith and commitment and may be followed by a time of publicly confirming faith in Christ. Those who choose the service of dedication of infants, delay baptism until the time when the child consciously believes and understands the meaning of following Christ.
How should baptism be done?
The practice of the early church (and Judaism) was probably immersion in water. This symbolizes the death to the old life and being raised to new life. However other methods like pouring or sprinkling have been practiced in the church as they also reflect cleansing and outpouring of the Spirit.
How do I prepare for baptism at Christ Church?
Download the entire Baptism Preparation Guide here. Contact the office to discuss baptism with one of our pastors. An outdoor baptism is scheduled for the first Sunday in September (9-5-10) at our outdoor service at Goddard Park. There will also be a baptism in conjunction with a Student Ministries Year end event, Wednesday July 28th.