Baptism
It speaks of repentance and cleansing, of being united with Christ in his death and
resurrection, and of witnessing to the call of God upon our lives. As the Apostle
Paul says, 'We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order
that, just as Christ was raised from the dead through the glory of the Father, we
too may live a new life.' (Romans 6:3,4)
Baptism is also about receiving God's Spirit
for service in the church and in the world. It is often accompanied by the laying
on of hands as a sign of commissioning, and by being received into membership of
the church.
When a person decides to be baptised they will normally have a period of preparation, during which the church (usually the minister) will help them understand more about the Christian faith and the meaning of baptism. This usually takes place in the weeks before baptism.
Adult Baptism in our church is by full immersion. We have a baptismal pool at the
side of the church hidden under the floor, with steps going down into it. Before
the baptismal service, the pool is uncovered and filled with warm water.
At the service
itself, anyone being baptised will often give a testimony to the congregation on
how they became a Christian and why they have chosen to be baptised. Then, immediately
before baptism, they will be asked basic questions of commitment, including an acknowledgement
of Jesus as Lord and Saviour.
A minister normally baptises. He or she will hold the
person being baptised, placing one hard on their back and the other on their chest.
They will then say the words, 'I baptise you in the name of the Father, of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit', and plunge the person being baptised backwards so that they
are fully immersed in the water, before raising them back up to standing position.
They then leave the water.
The person baptised will often be welcomed into church
membership at communion in the same service or at the next opportunity.
Infant Dedication
The service of Infant Dedication is open to parents who desire to give thanks for their child and dedicate themselves under God to its upbringing in Christian ways.
If you would like to know more please speak to one of the Deacons or Contact us
What is Baptism ?
Adult Baptism is a very special moment on the journey of faith. It is a moment when God's presence and blessing meets us, and it is a moment when we make our personal commitment of faith in Jesus as Lord.
Normally baptism takes place by full immersion in water as part of a public act of worship. It signifies the end of our old life and of being born again to new life in Christ.
Peter replied, "Repent and be baptised, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
Acts 2 : 38