Baptism Documents:
At St. John Church, we are simply overjoyed when an individual or family desires a baptism. We welcome any questions, and you are encouraged to call or email the office at 859.261.2066 ext. 201 or Office@StJohnChurch.net.
St. John Church schedules baptisms during 10:30a Sunday worship. Once you have a date or two in mind, contact the office to confirm the availability of the date you want. At that time, you will be asked for information for the individual being baptized. Then the pastor will contact you to set a time for a brief consultation and preparation.
We believe that all the baptized ‘belong body and soul to Jesus Christ.’[1] No matter who – no matter what – no matter where we are on life’s journey – notwithstanding race, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, class or creed – we all belong to God and to one worldwide community of faith. All persons baptized – past, present and future – are connected to each other and to God through the sacrament of baptism “a visible act done by human beings in which God acts.”[2]
Regardless of the age, every baptism marks the beginning of new life through Jesus Christ. Baptism does not change our relationship with God. Rather it recognizes and proclaims what is already a fact – we are God’s children. It is to be motivated neither by superstition nor social custom but by faith.
“Because baptism is something that God has done, there is no need for a ‘do-over.’”[3]
“Because baptism is the sacrament of initiation into the church, it makes sense for the church, the congregation, to be present. Because being Christian isn’t something a person does alone or without help from others, so baptism isn’t normally done alone or privately either.”[4]
Since parents make promises when their children are baptized: to grow with their children in the Christian faith, to help their children to be faithful members of the church, and to offer the nurture of the Christian church so their children may come to affirm their baptism; parents should explore the meaning of baptism for themselves and their children.[5]
[1] 1 Cor. 6:19-20; Rom. 14:7-9; 1 Cor. 3:23; Titus 2:14
[2] Getting Ready for Baptism (Open Waters Publishing of The Pilgrim Press, © 2014 United Church of Christ), p. 7.
[3] Getting Ready for Baptism, p. 10.
[4] Getting Ready for Baptism, p.10.
[5] United Church of Christ Book of Worship (© 1986 United Church of Christ) p. 137.