BAPTISM
is one of two sacraments celebrated in the United Methodist
Church (together with Holy Communion). In the sacraments we
encounter God and his love in a special way.
There are two
forms of baptism in the United Methodist Church: infant (and
young child) baptism, and baptism of older children and adults.
Both are
practiced and are considered acceptable. Each family makes a
choice about having children baptized early, or waiting until
they are older or young adults.
Baptism of
infants and young children is a celebration of promises:
-
Of God’s
promise to love us and claim us forever.
-
Of
parents’ and sponsors’ promises to teach their child about
Jesus, and to be the instruments of God’s love in his or her
life.
-
Of the
congregation’s promise to do this as well.
Children are
invited to make a personal commitment to following Jesus Christ
when they become confirmation age, 7th-8th
grade.
Baptism of
older children and adults emphasizes
-
Forgiveness and cleansing from past wrongs.
-
Personal
acceptance of God’s free gift of unconditional love.
-
A
commitment to following where Jesus leads.
At Baker
Memorial United Methodist Church, you do not need to be a member
of the church to be baptized or to have a child baptized. We do
ask you to worship with us on several occasions, and to attend a
preparatory class. Baptism takes place during a regular worship
service of the congregation.
