"The Baptismal Covenant is God's word to us, proclaiming our adoption by grace,
and our word to God, promising our response of faith and love. Those within the covenant constitute the community we call the Church; therefore the services of the Baptismal Covenant are conducted during the public worship of the congregation where
the person's membership is held, except in very unusual circumstances."
-- United Methodist Book of Worship

Adult baptism

Adults who are baptized will receive the sacrament as part of the process of membership at Christ Church. Therefore, adults should go through the membership process before joining and receiving baptism. This is to ensure that individuals have a basic understanding of the promises made in response to God's grace in baptism.

Child baptism

At least one parent/guardian of child/children being presented for baptism should be a member of Christ Church. If parent(s)/guardian(s) are not members, they should go through the membership process. Then, they can join the church as part of the baptism liturgy on the day of the child's baptism. or before that date, if preferred. 

Out-of-Town baptism

We think it is best for a child to be baptized in the church and community where she/he will be raised. However, we will celebrate the baptism of a child from out-of-town if:

• The parent(s)/guardian(s) are in agreement and active members in a local church where they live so that they can faithfully live out the baptismal promises.
• A member of Christ Church (e.g. grandparent) makes the request and is willing to stand with the family to make the baptismal promises.
• The pastor where the parents are active members is in agreement with the baptism being performed at Christ Church.

These guidelines are the norms. There can be variances to these guidelines at the discretion of one of the Christ Church pastors, but only in very unusual and unique situations. However, even in these cases, every reasonable effort should be made to instruct the meaning and importance of vows being made at baptism and living them out within the context of a local church.

A short meeting should be scheduled with one of the pastors before the baptism to make sure the above guidelines are followed. This meeting should be with the adult being baptized, parent(s)/guardian(s) of the child being baptized, or the Christ Church member sponsoring the baptism (e.g. grandparent). In this meeting persons should receive the Baptism Handbook and be given instructions for the day of the baptism.

Here are a few frequently asked questions about baptisms.

When and where are baptisms performed?

In general, baptisms are performed in worship services on the third weekend of the month, although exceptions can be made. 

Can a baptism be performed somewhere other than the church?

Because we believe baptism includes the Christ Church family, baptisms are performed when the family gathers, most frequently at worship. However, there are limited exceptions, provided there is a compelling reason, with adequate community present, and according to pastor availability.

If I have been baptized in another church, can I be baptized again at Christ Church?

Baptism is an act of God through the grace of Jesus Christ and the work of the Holy Spirit.
If a person has been baptized in another denomination, a second baptism is not necessary. A person who has been baptized may decide to remember their baptism in a ceremony at the beach or in worship.

How do I schedule a baptism?

Please click here to contact Pastor Nathan Adams for more information on baptisms.

updated July 2023