What is Baptism?
Baptism is the "ordinary" or "instituted" means of justifying grace. It is the usual way God has offered the church to enable people of any age to experience the justifying grace of God and the cleansing power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Baptism begins God's work of saving us by cleansing us of sin and beginning the work of renewing us fully into the image of Christ. The key word here is beginning. Baptism starts the process. It does not complete it. We can choose by our action or inaction to let the work begun go dormant and have no fuller effect.
If you're ready for that step, we would love for you to meet with our pastor to discuss what that might mean for you.
If you're ready for that step, we would love for you to meet with our pastor to discuss what that might mean for you.
Frequently Asked Questions about Baptism:
If I was baptized in another tradition, do I need to be re-baptized? |
United Methodists do not re-baptize those who have already received Christian baptism. By Water and the Spirit, our statement on baptism, explains, "The power of the Spirit in baptism does not depend upon the mode by which water is administered, the age or psychological disposition of the baptized person, or the character of the minister. It is God's grace that makes the sacrament whole."
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Does it matter how I was baptized in another tradition? |
No; what matters is that you were baptized in water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit by someone authorized to do so. If you were, we believe you have received Christian baptism.
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I want to baptize my child. Does my sponsor or godparent have to be a member of this church? |
At least one parent, guardian, or sponsor must be a member of the church. All sponsors or godparents should also be mature Christians ready to help your child grow in faith and love toward God and neighbor.
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I have more questions. |
First, we suggest reaching out to our pastor. This can help clear up questions and what next steps you should take towards you or your child's baptism. In the meantime, we also suggest reading this document, The Meaning of Baptism in the United Methodist Church. It answers many questions about baptism and its purpose to United Methodists that our pastor can also go over with you.
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