Water baptism

A: Baptism is a ceremony in which a person is immersed in water to publicly declare their faith in Jesus Christ. It is an outward, physical sign of an inward, spiritual reality — a public confession of your personal commitment to follow Him.
Scripture: "This water symbolizes baptism that now saves you also — not the removal of dirt from the body but the pledge of a good conscience toward God." — 1 Peter 3:21

A: There are two great reasons. First, baptism is one tangible way to obey the Lord, who instructed new believers to be baptized as an early step of discipleship. Second, like "show-and-tell," baptism lets others know about the new life you have in Christ — and gives you a perfect opportunity to invite people to witness your commitment.

A: Anyone who believes in Jesus Christ, has asked for forgiveness of sins, and has made a commitment to follow Him should be baptized. A person should be able to understand both sin and forgiveness — as well as Jesus' sacrifice on the cross — before being baptized.
Note: We dedicate babies to the Lord but do not baptize them, since they do not yet have the capacity to repent or make a decision to follow Christ.
Scripture: "Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins." — Acts 2:38

A: We baptize by immersion — dipping the person completely under the water. The original New Testament word baptize literally meant "to immerse, to dip, to cleanse." Immersion beautifully pictures the spiritual reality: the burial of our old, sinful nature (going under) and our resurrection to new life in Christ (coming up).
Scripture: "We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead, we too may live a new life." — Romans 6:4

A: As soon as you're ready! Baptism is not a sign of spiritual maturity — it's an early step of obedience for those who want to follow Jesus. Don't wait until you feel "ready enough." The right time is when you've made the decision.
Scripture: "And now what are you waiting for? Get up, be baptized and wash your sins away, calling on his name." — Acts 22:16

A: We respect those with the conviction to have their babies dedicated or baptized, but we believe the Bible calls for a personal decision. Baptism, as we practice it, follows a personal repentance from sin and a choice to receive Christ's gift of salvation. If you made a personal decision to follow Jesus after your infant baptism, we'd encourage you to be baptized as a declaration of that personal commitment.

A: After you sign up, a pastor will reach out to walk you through everything. On the day of your baptism, you'll briefly share how you came to faith in Jesus — a short personal story, not a speech.
What to wear: A dark or heavy shirt or blouse over a swimsuit (so it won't become see-through when wet). Bring a towel and a change of clothes.
You're welcome to invite family and friends — baptism is a celebration meant to be shared.

In the baptism service, you'll briefly share your story. Here are three prompts to help you think through what to say — just a few sentences each is perfect.
1. Before: What was your life like before you knew Jesus in a personal way?
2. The turning point: How did you come to realize that Jesus alone could give you hope, forgive your sins, and turn your life around?
3. The journey: Who helped you take steps toward Jesus, and how did that happen?