How to Be Baptized in the Presbyterian Church

To be baptized in the Presbyterian Church is to make a public statement about one's faith in God. For parents of infants, it is a time to show the desire to raise children in the ways of the church. For adults, it is an opportunity to declare faith openly.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Get a clear understanding of the purpose and significance of water baptism as an ordinance in the Presbyterian Church. The application of the water signifies the washing away of sin, rebirth, God's faithfulness and the act of being sealed by God's Spirit.
2. Expect baptism to be a part of a worship service. Before one can be baptized, the congregation must authorize it, and only a qualified minister can perform the baptism ceremony.
3. Look at baptism as a gift of God's grace. It includes God's covenant with man and man's response to the call to repentance and discipleship.
4. Meditate on the sacrament of baptism as a means to trust in God as creator, redeemer and liberator. The act of baptism is a public declaration that one has made the decision to share in the work of the Spirit with other believers.
5. Expect water baptism to distinguish believers from nonbelievers. This applies to children as well as adults. For parents, baptizing a child symbolizes a commitment to nurture the child in faith.
6. Define the importance of the church commitment ceremony for infant baptism at the Presbyterian Church. This involves a group of people agreeing that they will be the example in word and deed that is required of true Presbyterians. Congregations take the act of infant baptism very seriously.
7. Expect to be baptized only one time. If you have been baptized by another congregation, the Presbyterian Church will usually accept that baptism and not require you to be baptized again. Some denominations require a new commitment through water baptism before membership is accepted.
8. Identify the branch of the Presbyterian Church you attend. In North America, there are several, including the Presbyterian Church (USA), the Presbyterian Church in America and the Orthodox Presbyterian Church. Find information about these church branches at their websites (see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

• Allow plenty of time to meet with the local pastor to discuss the baptism of your child or yourself. Some pastors plan service schedules well in advance.