Full Initiation into the Church. “Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into
Christ’s Body the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble”
(Book of Common Prayer p. 298). Baptism is about belonging to Christian community
and no other rite is required to complete becoming a Christian.
Following Jesus Christ. St. Paul referred to baptism as: “It is no longer I who
live, but Christ who lives in me.” - Galatians 2:20
In Baptism we are becoming followers of Jesus Christ which enters us into a
covenant with God where we will live our lives according to Jesus' teachings
and follow his example of ministry in the world.
Receiving God's Grace. A Sacrament is an outward and visible sign of an inward
and spiritual grace, given by Christ as sure and certain means by which we
receive that grace.
The outward and visible sign of Baptism is water and being baptized in the
baptismal formula Jesus commanded: “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son,
and of the Holy Spirit.”
The inward and spiritual grace of baptism is union with Christ in his death and
resurrection, birth into God’s family the Church, forgiveness of sins, and new
life in the Holy Spirit.
In baptism we enter the Body of Christ as we are adopted as God’s children in
Christ. We who were many become one Body in Christ. We become buried with
Christ in his death and share in his risen life.
BAPTISM PREPARATION
Baptism of infants and children (under age 13) is described on this page. If you
are age 13 or older and would like to be baptized, please refer to
Youth Catechumenate
(ages 13-16) or
Catechumenate
(16 years and older) and contact the office.
Parents or legal guardians presenting an infant or child for Baptism must have completed
a Baptism preparation class. It is desirable that Godparents also participate in
the class, if they are able. If Godparents cannot be present for the classes, materials
will be provided to help them prepare.
Children who have reached a discerning age that enables them to present themselves
for baptism, and are not yet 13 years old, participate in the baptism preparation
course with the assistance of parents and godparents. Please contact the office
to receive guidance about this.
Baptism preparation classes are offered on select Sunday afternoons, 2:30 - 4:00.
The classes are offered over three sessions and you need to complete all three sessions
prior to the baptism. You may participate in any course of three sessions that is
offered prior to the scheduled date of baptism. Please Note: Some reading &
preparation from discussion questions is required prior to each class session. Please
allow enough time to register for a class and receive the book prior to the class'
first session. Download our guide to baptism preparation (includes Baptism Schedule
2006-2007):
BAPTIZED INTO CHRIST: Baptism of Infants and Children at St. Paul's