Baptism Beliefs
Baptism is the outward sign of belief in Jesus. It represents our union with Jesus in his death, burial and resurrection. Baptism signifies our birth into God's family, forgiveness of sins and our new life in the Holy Spirit that comes through faith in Jesus Christ. Logically, Baptism would follow that belief, which is the case with adult Baptism. But, coming out of the Jewish tradition of Circumcision, Christian parents include their children in the external expressions of faith. A child's baptism, therefore, is their entry point into the Covenant Community of the Church.
The Scripture promises that if we train up a child in the way he should go, when he is old he will not depart from it. (Proverbs 22:6) Since many Baptisms are of children, we need to give it special consideration. There is only one reason for the Christian baptism of a child – the parents have made Jesus Christ the head of their household. Such families have a special relationship (called the New Covenant) with God in which they want their children to share. The Lord Jesus has given Baptism as the outward sign of this relationship.
Godparents
When a young child is presented for baptism, godparents (or "sponsors") stand with the parents, and join them in making very serious commitments. The parents and godparents promise to do all in their power to insure the child's Christian nurture. Keep several considerations in mind regarding the selection of godparents:
- Their Christian Faith & Practice
Have they placed their personal trust in Jesus Christ’s redeeming work on the cross? Do they actively seek to abide in His will? Are they baptized? - Their Church
Are they committed and involved in their church’s ministry and outreach? Godparents need not be members of Christ Church or even Anglican; but they must be believing, participating and baptized members of a Christian church. - Their Commitment to Your Child
Is there evidence that they will take an intentional and active involvement in the spiritual life of your child? - Their Availability & Proximity
In our increasingly mobile society, we can never be certain of the permanence of any of our relationships, but it makes the most sense if the godparents live close enough to maintain a good relationship with you and your child.
The promises the godparents will make, along with the parents, are earnest commitments that can only be made by faithful followers of Jesus Christ. Parents are strongly urged to recruit only persons who are willing and able to carry out those responsibilities faithfully.
Baptism Preparation
At Christ Church, we have set aside certain specific days for baptisms. In preparation for the baptism service, we offer a required Baptism Preparation class.
Pre-Baptism Class
The Baptism Preparation class explains and discusses the meaning, history, and ceremony of the baptismal service, as well as the role and responsibilities of those who sponsor a child for baptism. Parents who wish to present their children for baptism, as well as all candidates over the age of nine, are expected to attend the class. Godparents, as well, are strongly encouraged to attend.
We do not baptize infants unless their parents are members of this parish. If parents grew up in Christ Church or are otherwise related to Christ Church but now live elsewhere and desire to have their child baptized here, we encourage them to consider having their child baptized in the church they are currently attending. If, however, for family or other reasons, they still prefer to come back to this parish for the baptism, we ask that their current pastor send us a letter giving consent.
Upcoming Baptism Services
Sunday, February 8, 2009, 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. | Sanctuary
Preparation Class: Saturday, February 7, 2009, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel
Saturday, April 5, 2009, 4 p.m. | Chapel
Preparation Class: Saturday, April 18, 2009 11, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel
Sunday, June 14, 2009, 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. | Sanctuary
Preparation Class: Saturday, June 13, 2009, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel
Saturday, August 22, 2009, 4 p.m. | Chapel
Preparation Class: Saturday, August 15, 2009, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel
Sunday, October 18, 2009, 9:15 a.m. and 11 a.m. | Sanctuary
Preparation Class: Saturday, October 17, 2009, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel
Saturday, November 21, 2009, 4 p.m. | Chapel
Preparation Class: Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9:30-11:00 a.m. | Chapel