Baptism Information
Christian Baptism is a powerful sacrament. It is a wonderful moment as God's grace in Christ is poured out upon us, and we spiritually join the Christian faith family. Paul teaches us that it is like dying to sin, and rising with new life in Christ.
In the United Methodist Church
* We baptize by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion.
* Baptism is considered to be something that God does as an act of grace, through the church
* We do not "re-do" a baptism, although we may offer a alternate ceremony which reaffirms your original baptism.
* We recognize the baptisms previously performed by other Christian denominations and do not require a rebaptism to become a part of this church
* We baptize both adults and children.
Baptism here at Bethel United Methodist Church
Individuals seeking baptism for themselves, or parents seeking baptism for their children, should schedule an appointment with the Senior Pastor to talk about the meaning of baptism and the baptismal vows. Persons seeking baptism, who are not active in the church, must be prepared to become active in worship, and may be encouraged to demonstrate an attendance pattern prior to the scheduling of a baptism. The public repentance from sins and profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, certainly implies a commitment to be or become an active part of the worshiping Christian family.
Scheduling Baptism
Every effort should be made to schedule the baptism during a public worship service, since the vows include a congregational vow of support for the baptized individual. When the situation demands an alternative time, the family should invite friends from the parish to witness the event, so that they can affirm those congregational vows of support. Baptism by immersion, if it is the preferred choice, must be done off site, in a pool, lake, or neighboring church with a baptistry.
