“We receive you into the household of God. Confess the faith of Christ crucified, proclaim his resurrection, and share with us in his eternal priesthood.”
This proclamation, from the Book of Alternative Services, welcomes the newly baptized and reflects what Baptism is meant to be. In Baptism we both welcome people into our faith community and entrust them to join us, in word and action, in living out a life in obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
St. John’s welcomes all who wish to make this important life choice. While our most common experience is the baptism of babies and small children, baptism may take place at any age; infant to adult. Baptism has to do with commitment to a way of life, not something “to be done” out of tradition or to fulfill the expectations of others. For this reason so-called “private baptism” is not our common practice in the Anglican Church. Baptisms will normally take place at the main service of worship on a Sunday, when the community of faith is gathered together. An exception to this is would be an emergency baptism for someone severely ill. In this case, our clergy would perform the baptism away from the church and should the person survive, we would joyfully receive them into the faith family upon their recovery.
If you are considering Baptism for yourself, or for a member of your family, please contact the parish office and you will be directed to one of our clergy who will be happy to discuss this important decision with you. Preparation will be provided and is required.
There are certain times in the Church year that are more appropriate for Baptism to be celebrated so there may be a period between your initial inquiry and the actual event. Baptism is a celebration of the whole community. We want to both welcome you and support you in your faith journey!
Contact: St. John’s Parish Office for more information.
