Our Book of Common Prayer defines baptism as “full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body the Church. The bond which God establishes in baptism is indissoluble.” We baptize in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Through baptism, God adopts us into God’s family and makes us members of Christ’s body, the church. In Baptism, we join with Christ in his death by renouncing all that keeps us from God, and we join in his resurrection by being born to a new life in Christ. The Baptismal Covenant describes both the promises and responsibilities of this new way of life.
The Episcopal Church baptizes infants, children, and adults. Parents and Godparents make solemn vows on behalf of a child at baptism, and with the congregation, reaffirm their own baptismal vows, promising to raise the child in the Christian faith. Baptized children of all ages are welcome to receive communion. If you would prefer for your child to receive a blessing instead, please let the priest know when you come up for communion.
Older children and adults who wish to be baptized are sponsored by at least one baptized person who promises to support them by prayer and example.
A meeting with the clergy is required before scheduling a baptism, and some preparation is required, in order that persons receiving the sacrament understand the promises made by God and by the one to be baptized. All baptisms take place during the regular Sunday liturgy, not during a private ceremony.
If you have been baptized in another tradition but wish to join the Episcopal Church, or if you are in a place in your life where you wish to reaffirm your baptism, we welcome a conversation with you. Learn more here
For more information, contact The Rev.Susan Hartzell
