From the earliest times, children and infants were baptized and included in the church. As scriptural authority for this ancient tradition, some scholars cite Jesus’ words, “Let the little children come to me…for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” (Mark 10:14).
Baptism is a means of grace which signifies God’s initiative in the process of salvation. Parents who bring their child for baptism promise to nurture them in the faith and live a Christian life. The Baptism Milestone is designed to help parents fulfill the baptismal covenant.
In The United Methodist Church, baptism is a communal celebration and must be performed during a Sunday morning worship service as the congregation vows to nurture and support those being baptized. While frequently performed on young children, baptism can occur at any age.
Also, the UMC recognizes the baptism of most other Christian churches. There is no need to be re-baptized as we frequently reaffirm our baptismal vows through events such as confirmation, entry into membership, marriages, funerals, Easter, and Pentecost.
Contact Patricia Mazur for scheduling.