BaptismBaptism is the sacrament that unites us with Jesus Christ and makes us members of his church.Jesus said, "All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you. And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age." (Matt 28:18-20) The opening words of our baptism service summarize the meaning of baptism: "In baptism God claims us, and seals us to show that we belong to God. God frees us from sin and death, uniting us with Jesus Christ in his death and resurrection. By water and the Holy Spirit, we are made members of the church, the body of Christ, and joined to Christ's ministry of love, peace, and justice." The Presbyterian Church practices both child and adult baptisms. The Baptism of children witnesses to the truth that God's love claims people before they are able to respond in faith. The Baptism of those who enter the covenant upon their own profession of faith witnesses to the truth that God's gift of grace calls for fulfillment in a response of faithfulness. If you are a Christian parent, it is your joy and responsibility to present your children for baptism. The Presbyterian Book of Order states: "Children of believers are to be baptized without undue delay, but without undue haste." It also states, "When a child is being presented for baptism, ordinarily the parents(s) or one(s) rightly exercising parental responsibility shall be an active member of the congregation." This is because Presbyterians do not believe that there is anything magical about baptism. Baptism will have no effect on a child if that child is not being actively nurtured in the faith by a Christian family and a Christian congregation. Although baptism is particularly appropriate on a few Sundays of the year, we conduct baptisms throughout the year. In general, we avoid scheduling baptisms on communion Sundays and Sundays when there are other additions to the normal service. Our pastors are eager to talk with parents who want to baptize their children and with adults who want to be baptized themselves. Call them at the church office, 706-733-2275 to schedule a baptism date and to schedule appropriate training. Ordinarily, parents will be expected to meet with a pastor for one session prior to their child's baptism. This session is usually less than an hour long. Adults who want to be baptized will be expected to do more study. The exact amount will depend upon their prior knowledge of the Christian faith and experience with the church. |