What is baptism?

When we become a follower of Christ, we receive a new identity. We no longer allow others to tell us who we are. Christ now claims you and instructs you. Baptism is a way to celebrate becoming that new person. Baptism shows others that you have been made new. It represents our old life being washed clean because of our faith in Jesus Christ.

Why should I be baptized?

1. To follow Jesus' example. Baptism was the first thing Jesus did before beginning his ministry. “When Jesus was baptized, he immediately came up out of the water. Heaven was opened to him, and he saw the Spirit of God coming down like a dove and resting on him” (Matthew 3:16)

2. To obey Jesus’ command. Baptism was the last thing Jesus called his disciples to do after his resurrection and before returning to heaven. “Therefore, go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to obey everything that I’ve commanded you.” (Matthew 28:19–20)

3. To join with the body of Christ. In the United Methodist faith tradition, there are two sacraments of the church - two things that Jesus did and asked his followers to do: communion and baptism. The church has responded faithfully to Jesus’ call to observe these practices for 2,000 years. By being baptized, you are joining billions of others who have put their faith in Christ and made this decision public.

As the “Body of Christ” in the world, baptism commissions us to use our gifts to strengthen the church and to transform the world.

We would love to talk with you about baptism. If you just want to know more about baptism, our beliefs, or if you know you want to be baptized, simply fill out the information below and we will contact you.