Baptism

What is Baptism?

Baptism is God’s promise to us
Holy Baptism is the sacrament by which God adopts us as his children and makes us members of Christ’s body, the Church, and inheritors of the kingdom of God (The Book of Common Prayer, 858). The sacrament marks the beginning of a new life in which we are promised a new relationship with God – opening us to new possibility and hope through Jesus Christ.

Our promise to God and one another
At baptism, the person to be baptized vows to accept Jesus Christ as savior, to trust in his grace and love, and to follow and obey him as Lord (BCP 302-303). In the case of infants and younger children unable to answer for themselves, these vows are made by their parents and godparents who promise to raise the child in the Christian faith and support him or her in a Christian life through their prayers and by example.

The Background of Holy Baptism
In the sacrament of baptism, we recall the early rituals of the Jewish faith. Baptism has its origins in the purity rituals of our Jewish forbearers. Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. The three Gospel accounts of Jesus’ baptism by John are integral to our understanding of baptism (See Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22). All of these scripture passages include both the descent of the Holy Spirit on Jesus and the voice of God saying, “You are my son, the Beloved; with you I am well pleased.” Baptism, then, marks the beginning of a new and more abundant life begun as we turn from that which keeps us separated from God and accept our true identity as beloved children of God. In continuity with the purity rituals and early baptisms, water serves as a symbol of cleansing and new birth. Baptism means all this and more because of the coming of Jesus, the Christ. John the Baptist said to his followers, “I have baptized you with water, but he will baptize you with the gift of the Holy Spirit.” This gift of the Holy Spirit means that all that we vow to do in baptism is done with God’s help. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live this new life promised in Baptism.

Whom should I choose for a sponsor or godparent?

The role of godparent is a special one in which one person, in the case of infants and younger children, makes a vow on behalf of another to support them in their Christian faith and life. Godparents should ideally be persons with whom you share your faith and whose life is one which you would hope your child to emulate. Parents are appropriate godparents for their children.

How many godparents should I choose?

The Book of Common Prayer requires that there be at least one or more baptized persons. If you would like guidance in choosing a godparent, one of our clergy will be glad to assist you.

What if the godparents cannot be present?

It is ideal for godparents to be present to make their vows on behalf of the candidate. If they cannot be present, you might choose another baptismal date when they can be present. If this is not possible, someone else should stand in for that person and the godparent should make an appointment to talk with the clergy to discuss their role as a godparent.

Do I have to participate in a baptismal preparation class?

Yes, parents, godparents, and adult baptismal candidates are required to attend a baptismal preparation class at least two weeks prior to their requested date. We will explore the meaning and impact this sacrament has on our lives as Christians and as a community. Contact Erika Bower for more information.

How do I arrange for a Baptism?

Determine the best date and contact us
At St. Thomas’ Church, baptism is a process involving speaking with the clergy and a baptismal preparation class. Please check the dates listed at the top of this page then fill out the form below. Please contact the Children & Youth Minister, Erika Bower at 215-233-3970 ext. 128 or ebower@stthomaswhitemarsh.org for any additional information.

Worship Regularly
Because baptism is a transformational moment for the entire faith community in which we welcome our newest members and vow to support them, relationships are pivotal. The day of one’s baptism is just the beginning of the new life that Christ has promised us. It is only through the gift of community that we can truly receive all the gifts promised to us at baptism. The baptismal candidate is baptized into Christ’s body, the Church. But for the church to fulfill its vow to the baptized, the baptized needs to be present! During and after baptismal preparation, every attempt should be made to attend worship services regularly.

How much does it cost?

There is no charge for the sacrament of baptism but we hope that you will consider giving generously to the work of the church during our stewardship season.