Why Do We Baptize?

We understand Baptism to be the sacrament by which God adopts us as children and makes us members of Christ’s body, the Church. A sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace. In Baptism we welcome new members into the Body of Christ, commit ourselves to support them in their life in Christ, and re-dedicate our own lives to Christ. Baptism is a wonderful celebration that involves the whole congregation.

Because we understand Baptism to be an action by and in the community of faith, the rite is carried out as part of our regular Sunday worship service. Holy Baptism is especially appropriate at the Easter Vigil, on the Day of Pentecost, on All Saints’ Day or the Sunday after All Saints’ Day, and on the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord (the First Sunday after the Epiphany). It is recommended that, as far as possible, Baptisms be reserved for these occasions or when a bishop is present. Private Baptisms are not performed, except in cases of extreme emergency.

Who can be baptized?

We baptize both adults and children, as did the earliest Christian church. The Episcopal Church recognizes Baptism as a Christian sacrament. If you have been baptized in another Christian denomination, we honor and celebrate that. You do not need to be baptized again. If, having been baptized previously, you desire to reaffirm your faith, we have a similar rite in which you may do this.

Who will act as Godparents or Sponsors?

Sponsors of adults and older children present their candidates and thereby signify their endorsement of the candidates and their intention to support them by prayer and example in their Christian life. Sponsors of infants, commonly called godparents, present their candidates, make promises in their own names, and also take vows on behalf of their candidates. As such, sponsors and godparents should be baptized Christians, willing to vow that they will see to your or your child’s spiritual well-being and support you in your spiritual growth, not only at the baptismal service, but beyond.

For more information, please contact the Rector.