Baptism at Grace
What is baptism?
Baptism is the rite by which a person becomes a member of Christ's Body, the Church. No further baptism is required for full participation in church life, including receiving Holy Communion. The Episcopal Church teaches that the spiritual bond established by God in baptism is permanent and cannot be broken.
The "Celebrating Baptism" series may be found on the Episcopal Church website: https://www.episcopalchurch.org/video/celebrating-baptism/
Can anyone be baptized?
Yes, anyone can be baptized in the Episcopal Church, as it is open to people of all ages—infants, children, and adults. Baptism is considered a full initiation into Christ's body, the Church, and is free of charge. It is a one-time sacrament performed with water in the name of the Trinity.
The prerequisites for Holy Baptism are as follows:
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For an infant: the expressed desire of the parent(s).
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For a pre-adolescent child: their own expressed desire, along with the consent of the parent(s).
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For an adolescent young person or adult: their own expressed desire.
When and where do baptisms take place?
Since Holy Baptism is not a solitary act but involves the gathering of members of Christ’s Body, the baptismal rite is normally administered within the Holy Eucharist during a principal service of worship in the presence of the congregation where the candidate can become a participating member. Families interested in baptism who are inquirers to the faith, or otherwise unaffiliated with Grace Church, are welcome to have a conversation with the Rector about a possible pastoral exception.
Holy Baptism is especially appropriate during the Easter season, on the Day of Pentecost, the Sunday after All Saints’ Day (Nov. 1), the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord (the First Sunday after the Epiphany in January), or when the Bishop is visiting. Baptisms are not normally conducted during Advent, Christmas Eve/Day, or Lent.
What preparation or training is required?
When choosing a sponsor for baptism, it's important to select someone who provides guidance. candidate should have at least one baptized sponsor, with parents often serving as godparents for their children. Sponsors for adults pledge to support their candidates through prayer and example, while godparents for infants take vows on their behalf, committing to their spiritual growth.
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Contact the Rector for more information on planning and preparing for baptism.