Precious first steps...
There are many reasons why a person chooses to get baptized, or to baptize their child. We believe that God welcomes all, and that baptism is an important and symbolic first step.
Does baptism equate Christianity? No, not by itself. ...but it is a powerful and sacred milestone in the Christian faith.
Baptism is often compared to the wearing of a wedding ring. Christian marriage is a commitment made between partners, before God and the law. The marriage is a valid union, with or without a ring. However, the wearing of a wedding ring is a public statement of that commitment and marks the individual as someone who has taken a major life step. Similarly, baptism is a public expression of faith and provides a tangible first step as a member of the Christian community.
Does baptism equate Christianity? No, not by itself. ...but it is a powerful and sacred milestone in the Christian faith.
Baptism is often compared to the wearing of a wedding ring. Christian marriage is a commitment made between partners, before God and the law. The marriage is a valid union, with or without a ring. However, the wearing of a wedding ring is a public statement of that commitment and marks the individual as someone who has taken a major life step. Similarly, baptism is a public expression of faith and provides a tangible first step as a member of the Christian community.
Why do people get baptized?
- Obedience - In the Bible, Christians are repeatedly called to be baptized as a public expression of faith and commitment to Christ.
- Acts 2:38 - Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, 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. ¨ (NLT)
- Shared Experience - Throughout history, Christians have been baptized by water as a shared expression of faith and commitment to living life through God´s love. This experience connects us together throughout the ages, as a body of believers.
- 1 Corinthians 12:13 - For we are all baptized by one Spirit so as to form one body - whether Jews or Gentiles, slaves or free - and we were given the one Spirit to drink. (NLT)
- Support - When an infant is baptized into the church, the congregation makes a collective commitment to shepherd and support the child through his or her spiritual life. When an adult chooses to be baptized, they openly and boldly express their intentions to walk in Christ. In turn, the congregation vows to support and nurture that walk.
- Choice - Adult baptisms are a statement of choice, taken wittingly and with careful consideration. All are welcome in the community of Christ, regardless of one´s status or history. The baptism highlights one´s commitment to living in love and supporting the Christian community through your time, talents, gifts and service.
- Empowerment - Choosing to be baptized is an important step in one´s spiritual life, indicating personal growth and a readiness to take on more responsibility within the church. Fear, whether it be of judgement or of failure, is one of the biggest hurdles to living an empowered and authentic life. By stepping out in faith and publicly owning your beliefs, you in turn empower others around you to live their own truths.
- Joshua 1:9 - Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go. (NLT)
- Public Statement of Faith - Ultimately faith is meant to be personal, not private. Baptism is a response in God´s call to action, pushing one to live in love and authenticity.
- 1 Timothy 6:12 - Fight the good fight for the true faith. Hold tightly to the eternal life to which God has called you, which you have declared so well before many witnesses. (NLT)
Frequently Asked Questions:
Who can get baptized at MUC?
We conduct baptisms for both children and adults. Family and friends are welcomed and encouraged to be a part of this joyous spiritual milestone.
When do baptism ceremonies take place?
Baptisms typically occur during our Sunday morning service at 11am. The date and any further details are coordinated with the minister in advance. We ask that you remain for the whole service on the day of baptism, giving the congregation the opportunity to pause in special recognition of you or your child, and welcome the newly baptized into the Christian community.
Can we have godparents?
Yes you can. It is your choice whether or not you have godparents.
How long does the service take?
The service lasts approximately an hour. The baptism is at the end of the service and is seen as its highlight.
Can we take pictures or have a photographer?
Yes! Photographs in the church are permitted during the portion of the service dedicated to the baptism ceremony. Thereafter, we ask that photography is withheld until the end of the service.
Do you have child care facilities?
Yes we do! We have a nursery for nursery age and younger children. We also have two areas within our sanctuary where children are welcomed to play quietly. The McLeish room is a foyer, an enclosed lounge area at the back of our sanctuary and connected to our main entry, which provides privacy for nursing mothers or for adults in need of a comfortable way to walk around with their children while still listening to the service. Our congregation is family friendly and welcomes the participation of children in our service... both planned and spontaneous! However, we also understand that you as parents may benefit from support during worship. We are here to help - just let us know what you need.
Do we receive a certificate?
Yes, the newly baptized will receive a certificate to signify this special day.
How do I book a baptism?
Please contact the minister at [email protected] to arrange a date to discuss this important event.
We conduct baptisms for both children and adults. Family and friends are welcomed and encouraged to be a part of this joyous spiritual milestone.
When do baptism ceremonies take place?
Baptisms typically occur during our Sunday morning service at 11am. The date and any further details are coordinated with the minister in advance. We ask that you remain for the whole service on the day of baptism, giving the congregation the opportunity to pause in special recognition of you or your child, and welcome the newly baptized into the Christian community.
Can we have godparents?
Yes you can. It is your choice whether or not you have godparents.
How long does the service take?
The service lasts approximately an hour. The baptism is at the end of the service and is seen as its highlight.
Can we take pictures or have a photographer?
Yes! Photographs in the church are permitted during the portion of the service dedicated to the baptism ceremony. Thereafter, we ask that photography is withheld until the end of the service.
Do you have child care facilities?
Yes we do! We have a nursery for nursery age and younger children. We also have two areas within our sanctuary where children are welcomed to play quietly. The McLeish room is a foyer, an enclosed lounge area at the back of our sanctuary and connected to our main entry, which provides privacy for nursing mothers or for adults in need of a comfortable way to walk around with their children while still listening to the service. Our congregation is family friendly and welcomes the participation of children in our service... both planned and spontaneous! However, we also understand that you as parents may benefit from support during worship. We are here to help - just let us know what you need.
Do we receive a certificate?
Yes, the newly baptized will receive a certificate to signify this special day.
How do I book a baptism?
Please contact the minister at [email protected] to arrange a date to discuss this important event.
