How to Prepare for Mormon Baptism

Baptism is an important concept in Mormonism.

The Mormon Church believes that baptism should happen in complete immersion into the water. The immersion is symbolic of the rebirth of a person into a member of the church and disciple of Jesus. Mormons believe that once a person is baptized, all of their prior sins are forgiven. Baptism generally happens at the age of eight, but also in adulthood for converts.

Instructions

1. Honor the person being baptized. Make sure that the person that is being baptized understands how important the baptism date is for them. Explain that they will be honored during this day and how it will affect their life.

2. Teach about baptism. Help the person being baptized learn about baptism and that they are following in Jesus' path. You may want to read some scripture about baptism to help them learn that baptism is the way to God. Let them know that with baptism all of their sins will be forgiven, and that they will become an official member of the Mormon Church. Some suitable verses are Mark 16:16, 1 Peter 3:21, Heb 5:9, Acts 22:16 and John 3:5.

3. Plan for the baptism day. Make plans for the day of baptism that includes the entire family being present at the service. Plan a special dinner or gathering for after the service. You may want to buy a small gift for the person who is being baptized.

4. Practice the baptism. If the person who is being baptized is a child, you may want to practice with them. The idea of being immersed may be scary to them. Show them how they will be held and how they should place their hands and bend their knees.

5. Explain how they should be during the baptism. Tell the person being baptized that they should plan to go to the service with a desire to show Jesus and God the they love them and they want to serve them.

6. Enjoy the day. When the baptism day arrives, enjoy the day with the special person who is involved in the baptism service. Help them through their day and be available to answer any questions and to offer support.

References

• The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints: Preparing for Baptism
• Why Mormonism: Mormon Baptism