Holy Baptism

Holy Baptism is a public celebration of full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's body. It is appropriately and historically reserved for the Great Vigil of Easter, the Feast of Pentecost, All Saints' Day (or the Sunday immediately following), and the Feast of the Baptism of Christ.

The "new" Book of Common Prayer (1979 edition) has brought us a long way in recognizing this sacrament as much more than a social event in which we "get the baby done." Rather, it is the act of grateful acceptance of the new covenant God has offered to all humankind. We offer this sacrament to infants and children with the expectation that they will in time make their own public affirmation of faith before the bishop of the diocese. Here are some guidelines and notes for those who may be contemplating this sacrament for themselves or their children:

• In the case of a child or infant, at least one of the parents must have been a baptized member of Saint John's for some time.
• Candidates should know they are making a commitment to active and loyal membership to this church, which includes regular faithful worship and sacrificial financial stewardship.
• Sponsors (godparents) are urged to keep their promises by ensuring the children they have presented are receiving every opportunity for spiritual growth until and beyond the day of their confirmation.
• The entire parish membership is reminded of their solemn promise to each person baptized here: "I will do all in my power to support this person in their life in Christ."
• Infant and child baptisms at Saint John's are scheduled through the minister to children; adult baptisms are scheduled through the rector.