In the United Church of Christ, people can be baptized either as children or adults.  Baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the mark of their acceptance into the care of Christ’s church, the sign and seal of their participation in God’s forgiveness, and the beginning of their growth into full Christian faith and life.

When an infant or young child is baptized, one or both parents and/or one or more sponsors promise to assume certain responsibilities for the Christian nurture of the baptized child.  At least one of the parents or sponsors should be a member in good standing of a Christian church. The ceremony of baptism includes a commitment on the part of the whole congregation to oversee and assist with the Christian nurture of the baptized person.  Those who are baptized at an early age are given an opportunity in their youth to make a personal profession of faith through confirmation.

Baptism is not only a personal celebration in the lives of the individual candidates and their families, but is also one of the two sacraments of the church, and a central celebration in the life of this church.  For this reason, baptism takes place in the presence of the community of faith gathered for public worship.  The baptismal font is at the front of the church near the communion table and the pulpit to accent the connections between baptism, God’s word, and the faith community.

If you are not a member of our church and wish to bring a child for baptism, we ask that you attend a few worship services to be sure that this community of faith is the right “fit” for you and your child.

Parents of a child to be baptized meet with the pastor some time before the baptism for pre-baptism counseling.  Because it is a sacrament of the church, there are no fees for baptism when it is performed during the worship celebration of the church.

To begin the process, contact the pastor or complete a baptismal form or you may email Pastor Robyn Gray if you have any questions prior to completing the form.