Baptism

Baptism is participation in Christ’s death and resurrection (Romans 6.2-5) a washing away of sin (1 Corinthians 6.11); a new birth (John 3.5); an enlightenment by Christ (Ephesians 5.14) a re-clothing in Christ (Galatians 3.27); a renewal by the Spirit (Titus 3.5); the experience of salvation from the flood (1 Peter 3.20-21); an exodus from bondage (1 Corinthians 10.1-2); and a liberation in to a new humanity in which barriers of division, whether of sex or race of social status, are transcended (Galatians 3.27-28; 1 Corinthians 12.13). The images are many but the reality is one.

The proper candidates for baptism are recent converts to Christianity, faithful adults who have not been previously baptised and the children of the faithful.

Baptismal Promises

If you are considering baptism for yourself or for  your child you will want to consider what you are getting yourselves into. Baptism is a commitment to a new way of life.

Part of baptism is the baptismal covenant. In baptism we remember God's promise of love and in return we commit ourselves to God's ways of love in the following promises that are made by the candidate, or parents and sponsors, and by the faith community gathered.

Questions to the Candidate or Parents and Sponsors

• Will you be responsible for seeing that the child you present is nurtured in the faith and life of the Christian community?

• Will you by your prayers and witness help this child to grow into the full stature of Christ?

• Do you renounce Satan and all the spiritual forces of wickedness that rebel against God?

• Do you renounce the evil powers of this world which corrupt and destroy the creatures of God?

• Do you renounce all sinful desires that draw you from the love of God?

• Do you turn to Jesus Christ and accept him as your Saviour?

• Do you put your whole trust in his grace and love?

• Do you promise to obey him as your Lord?

Question to the Congregation

• Will you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these persons in their life in Christ?

Questions to All

• Do you believe in God the Father?

• Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?

• Do you believe in God, the Holy Spirit?

• Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread and in the prayers?

• Will you persevere in resisting evil and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?

• Will you proclaim by word and example the good news of God in Christ?

• Will you seek and serve Christ in all person, loving your neighbour as yourself?

• Will you strive to safeguard the integrity of God's creation, and respect, sustain and renew the life of the Earth?

• Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being? 

Getting Baptised at Saint John's

Candidates for Holy Baptism will enter into a process of preparation which will include the meaning of baptism and the responsibilities of the newly-baptized as members of the church. Normally the priest will arrange to visit with the candidate (or candidate and parents).

Normally people should be baptised in the local congregation where they attend worship. 

Sponsors ("godparents") must be baptised persons who practicing their faith by attending church on a regular basis. They need not be Anglican, but must be aware of the nature of the promises they are making. 

Because baptism involves joining the community, private baptisms are not offered, except when appropriate for particular pastoral reasons.

Candidates considering baptism should contact the Rector of the parish, David Anderson, to make arrangements.