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As we celebrate you or your child’s baptism, please know that through the sacrament of Baptism we are invited into Christ’s Holy Church. We are incorporated into God’s mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit. All this is God’s gift, offered to us without price.

What is baptism?
For United Methodists, baptism is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. It is one of two recognized sacraments. The other is Holy Communion.

If we are baptizing children that are too young to make that decision, we are declaring that we will raise them to know the Lord until such time as they are able to make that decision for themselves. St. Andrew’s also makes a commitment to parents, and the one being baptized, that we will nurture and support you in your life together as a church.

At what age should a person be baptized?
There is not a formula as to when to baptize, it is a matter of the heart. Often times, babies are baptized. In some cases, parents want to wait until their child is old enough to decide for him- or herself if they want to be baptized. We would then baptize the child at any time you or they request it, but many people wait until confirmation to do so. Adults who have never been baptized are also welcome to be baptized at the same time they join the church.

Why be baptized?
Baptism is a sign of what God offers us through Jesus Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit. It is a covenant in which we make a confession of our faith in Jesus Christ.

What happens at a baptism?
At St. Andrews, we usually do baptism by sprinkling water, but we can also celebrate by pouring water over the head or by complete immersion, which is done at an offsite location. The sacrament is traditionally performed during a scheduled Worship Service.

On the day of the baptism, we ask that everyone involved with the baptism (the one being baptized, parents/guardians of children or youth, sponsors/Godparents) are seated up front on the right side of the congregation. A worship helper will collect you and direct you up the side stairs to the stage at the appropriate time.

Once on the stage, you will stand near the baptismal font facing the congregation. You will be asked some questions about either 1) declaring your faith in Jesus Christ and desire to be baptized in His name, if you, yourself, are being baptized, or 2) declaring your intent to raise your child to know the Lord if your child is being baptized. The congregation will also affirm your baptism and make its commitment to you.

The Pastor will baptize you or your child with the ancient traditional offering saying, “, I baptize you in the name of the Father, of the Son, of the Holy Spirit,” then offer the prayer, “The Holy Spirit work within you, that having been born through water and the Spirit, you may become a faithful disciple of our Lord Jesus Christ.” Then the Pastor will ask God to bless the covenant we make together, and you will return to your seat.

Are we free to sit down after the prayer of blessing?
Before leaving the stage after baptism, you should take the baptism certificate envelope with you, which includes a letter for your child if applicable, the sponsor’s certificate if applicable and the baptismal candle, which will be lit at the onset of the baptism. (Please do not take the candleholder.) A box will be provided for the candle. The Pastor or a worship helper will indicate when the baptism is complete.

Are there any official documents involved?
The baptism certificate is an official record; you might want to keep it with your other important personal documents. If you are having your child baptized, you may want to keep the candle and the letter in a separate box. The letter is an explanation for the child in the future about what happened on their baptism day. We would suggest putting in a picture of the baptism (you, your child, and/or pastor, grandparents, sponsors, etc.) with it.

Why do you provide a candle and a letter to children who are baptized?
After your child has attended confirmation classes, some time between 6th-8th grade, they will go through a confirmation ceremony where they are made an official member of the church. We recommend that families find a time on confirmation to light that candle again, look at the picture and read that letter. It can be a moving experience.

Can I have my baptism re-done at St. Andrew’s?
We do not do re-baptisms. To us, that would be saying that God’s grace was not sufficient the first time. We will, however, celebrate a re-affirmation of your baptism vows, and call you to remember your baptism and keep it holy.

Who do I contact with questions or to schedule a baptism?
Please do not hesitate to contact Wendee Schweizer, Administrative Assistant at the church office: 431.8560, ext. 10.