How to Plan an Adult Baptism Party

The occasion of an adult baptism, the receiving of the person into the church, is just as joyful as that of a child's and just as worthy of a celebration. Although an adult baptism party is a bit different from a child's, if it is well-planned and conducted, it can be a fun and rewarding experience.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Venue
• Food and drinks
• Decorations

Plan an Adult Baptism Party

1. Consider the type of party the person getting baptized would like. If the person is very sociable and outgoing, a large public party might be enjoyable for him or her. However, a more introverted candidate might prefer a smaller party in a private home.
2. Decide on a venue and pay careful attention to its layout. You'll want to plan seating arrangements as soon as possible, which includes ordering tables, buying table decorations and deciding where the guest of honor will sit.
3. Find out from the person or organization sponsoring the party what resources can be used. Ask about the price ceiling for food and decorations, when and how you can access the venue and what restrictions there might be. For example, some venues may not allow alcohol or young children.
4. Plan your decorations carefully, including whether to go with a formal or informal theme. Stick with tasteful religious decorations, such as a cross or sunburst. You can choose colors to match the liturgical theme of the season (green, white, purple or gold) or simply ones that the guest of honor likes.
5. Serve wine if the church permits it, but not hard liquor. Provide nonalcoholic drinks, too.
6. Offer sandwiches, cheese and crackers, fruit, dips, spreads and so forth buffet style. The party is usually held in the afternoon or early evening, when lighter food is traditional. When the gathering is scheduled right after church, a luncheon may be appropriate.
7. Find out the church tradition for honoring newly converted adults. Sometimes they are presented with a gift, such as a Bible or a candle. The pastor or priest may want to make a speech while gifting the guest of honor.
8. Set the mood by your behavior. Once the presentation has been made, feel free to loosen up and socialize, not forgetting to make the guest of honor feel welcome and comfortable.
9. Learn more about Protestant adult baptism at the New Life Church Web site. Those who wish to find out more about Catholic baptism can visit the RCNet Web site (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Typically, an adult baptism party is given by friends, family or the church, not by the person being baptized.
• It is customary, if the pastor or priest is present at the party, to ask him to offer a word of welcome and a brief prayer, either at the start of the party or before the food is served.
• Even if all the guests are adults, this is still a religious occasion. Keep the conversation clean and appropriate.

Who Can Help:

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