About Baptism
A Christian believer's water baptism is a joyous occasion, symbolic of rebirth in Jesus Christ. Families and church congregations often commemorate the event with special ceremonies, gifts, cards and celebrations. The baptismal rite, entered into by millions of Christians, primarily signifies identification with Christ.
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History
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Most of us think water baptism started in the New Testament. However, its roots are found in the Old Testament ceremonial washings. Whenever some was stricken with disease or death, restoration required a ceremonial washing or baptism. This was a big part of Jewish life. But baptism as Jesus commanded it to be done in the name of the father, the son and the holy spirit was different. It was not a mere cleansing or ceremony. It was and is a portrait of rebirth, immersion in water portraying dying to self, coming up out of the water signifying new life. Jesus himself was immersed by John the Baptist, in a prophetic act depicting his own death and resurrection.
Significance
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In Christian families, the day of infant or adult baptism is very special. Parents, grandparents, friends and other family gather to celebrate. In Catholic baptisms, godparents have a special role. They make the Profession of Faith in a child's name and accept the responsibility of instructing the child in spiritual matters along with the parents. Godparents often present a special keepsake gift to the family for the baby. Infants wear white, frequently elaborate christening gowns sometimes handed down through the generations. In many Protestant churches, infants or children are dedicated to the Lord in a ceremony similar to christening, and baptized as believers later in life.
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Considerations
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Consider who you want to be present at the baptism. Include in your guest list those special friends and relatives for whom you have high regard and those who will take a serious interest in the child's life. You may want to send printed invitations in advance, showing the importance of the occasion.
An actual baptism or christening often occurs at the end of a regular church service, followed by a party for all who attend. Be sure to bring a bib and blanket for the baby. If the child will be fully immersed in water, have a towel and dry clothing. Adults and children at the ceremony dress as they would for church.
Do you want photographs to commemorate this special day? Make arrangements for someone to take pictures at the ceremony and during the celebration.
Types
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Two types of baptisms are the believer's baptism and infant/child baptism. Most Protestant churches perform believer's baptisms according to the New Testament, in which new Christians are baptized by immersion when they believe that through Jesus they can be forgiven, reborn and have eternal life. Throughout the book of Acts, and throughout history, Christians have heard, believed and been baptized. For infants and children, the practice of baptism by sprinkling is a beautiful ceremony, akin to dedicating the child to God and saying: "Your parents and sponsors now vow to raise you as a Christian. When you are older, you must make the commitment yourself." There is no specific recommendation as to the age range for a child to be baptized. For many families, it is not uncommon for siblings to be christened or baptized at the same time.
Misconceptions
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A believer's baptism in no way nullifies or denigrates the blessings of an infant baptism. John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit from his mother's womb. Cornelius and his whole household, presumably including children, were baptized and filled with the Holy Spirit. The Bible includes promises "to you and your children" (Acts 2:38). Although it is said that "God has no grandchildren," there is plenty of scripture to back the belief that children are claimed for the kingdom of God because of their parents' faith. An infant baptism, or dedication service, is meaningful and even prophetic of the child's future. However, when the child is mature enough to profess real faith in Jesus Christ, she can have a believer's baptism.
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Resources
- Photo Credit Miles Pfefferle, Willow Creek Community Church
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