Baptism in United Methodist tradition, theology, liturgy and practice is one of two sacraments observed in our denomination (the other, Holy Communion). We believe baptism to be an extremely important piece of our life together as Christians, followers in the way of Jesus. In fact, in Christian tradition, one dominant meaning and impact of Baptism is its initiation of children and adults into the community – local and global – of God’s and Jesus’ people.

In this way, one might say, Baptism is a twist on the old saying “Blood is thicker than water.” Baptism posits “Water is thicker than blood.” This is not meant to diminish family in the formation of a child’s life and faith. Baptism says, “You’ve already got blood kin by birth. Nothing can ever take that away. The waters of baptism birth someone into a new creation, beyond blood family and into God, naming them, claiming them, and promising to nurture them in God’s grace and love, via a church community; to live a life that becomes outpouring of God’s Spirit towards others and the world.

Later in life, Confirmation (usually in early teen years but at any time in adulthood) is rite of remembering baptism and renewing its meaning and covenant, remembering and affirming and claiming for one’s own what’s already taken place in baptism.

Because of this context of Christian community it is United Methodist practice to baptize in the context of Sunday worship services or at gatherings when the community of local church community can be unless there are extenuating or emergency circumstances. Please email us or call the office to begin a discussion about your child's baptism.