BAPTISM
THE GROVE – COTTAGE GROVE
Baptism
THE GRACE OF GOD FOR ALL TO SEE
Baptism is an outward sign of an inward grace — a symbol of the goodness of God working in and through us, a goodness that cannot be earned and cannot be lost.
Baptism is also an introduction into the life of the church — a parent or adult commits to following the way of Jesus, and the church commits to supporting them in that pursuit.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here are some of the questions that many people have when considering baptism.
Have other questions that aren’t answered here? Email Jeremy at [email protected] for more information.
Q. Who should be baptized?
A. Everyone!
Baptism is for everyone — babies, children, and adults. Because baptism is about God’s grace, it’s open to all.
Q. If I change churches, do I need to get re-baptized?
A. Nope!
Baptism is forever. Because God’s grace is sufficient, we only need to be baptized once. Sometimes after a new spiritual experience, people who’ve already been baptized choose to reaffirm their baptism as recognition of how they are now experiencing and responding to God’s grace.
Q. Do I have to be a member of the church to be baptized or have my child baptized?
A. You don’t!
Membership is not a requirement for baptism in The United Methodist Church. Being a committed follower of Jesus through regular church involvement is important to the Christian faith. When baptizing children, parents commit to raising the child as part of a church community. If you are interested in joining the church, please share that with the pastor helping you with baptism arrangements.
Q. Does the baptism have to be during a church service?
A. Yes*
In baptism, the congregation makes a commitment to you – to walk with you in the faith journey and to support your family. For this reason, the gathered congregation should always be part of the celebration of baptism. *Exceptions are made for those with a particular disability or special need that prevents holding a baptism during regular worship services.
Q. When can I have a baptism?
A. Let’s find a date!
Baptisms may be scheduled at any of our regular Sunday services, but may not be available on some dates due to special events. Families are asked to meet with one of our pastors before the date of their baptism.
Q. Should we have godparents for our child’s baptism?
A. Not really…
In The United Methodist Church we don’t have “godparents” per se, but we do have baptismal sponsors. These persons are included in the ritual of baptism and commit themselves to supporting the child’s faith development. You will choose whether having sponsors is important to your family.