How to Verify a Baptism

Many people are baptized when they are too young to recall it.

Because of the death of family members or the loss of records, people are at times left with questions about whether or not they were baptized. Unlike state or federal records, there is no centralized collection of baptismal records in our country. Since a large portion of baptisms take place before the baptized person is old enough to recall them, it can be necessary to invest time and effort in determining whether or not one was actually baptized.

Instructions

1. Most churches provide a certificate of baptism to the family. Search through family records, photo albums and personal belongings for a copy of a baptismal certificate. The certificate should list the baptized person's full name, date of baptism, location, and officiating minister.

2. 

   Finding a witness is another way to verify a baptism.

   The majority of churches request that an official witness be present at a baptism, often referred to as a godparent or sponsor. If a baptismal certificate is not available, inquire of all relatives or family friends. If one of them is able to testify that they witnessed the baptism taking place, most churches will recognize the baptism as verified.

3. If no witnesses can be located, call any congregations you may have been baptized at. Official church records should be kept at the local congregation. Most congregations would be glad to search through their records to verify a baptism.

4. 

   If a baptism cannot be verified, seek baptism again.

   If still in doubt, baptize again. While the Bible gives no command to be baptized more than once, the general practice of Christian churches has been to administer baptism to those who are not sure if they have been baptized in the past -- see Acts 19:1-5 for an example of "re-baptizing" when the validity of the first baptism was in doubt. Speak to your local minister for further questions.

Tips & Warnings

• While the statements above are accepted in most Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant circles, baptismal practices vary considerably among denominations. Some Protestant denominations, for example, will not accept as valid or verified baptisms performed by a Catholic priest. It is advisable to speak to your local minister for further advice and assistance.

References

• WLS Essay File: "Pastor, Am I Baptized?"; Richard Gurgel