Baptismal Community
Baptism, along with the Eucharist, are the foundational sacraments in the Episcopal Church. Baptism marks a transformational shift in an individual’s life, away from the bonds of fear and shame and into a life of extraordinary grace in community offered by Christ in and the Church.
Candidates for baptism are presented by other baptized members of the church who promise to mentor the baptisands in their faith, no matter their age. If children are in infancy, their parents promise to raise the child in the Church, to know, love, and serve God. The baptismal service consists of three parts. The baptismal covenant, sworn by godparents and baptisands (or parents), promises to renounce evil and seek God alone. The baptism with water is an outward symbol of the inward grace bestowed by the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit by being a member of the Church and by giving one’s whole life to Christ. Finally, the chrism oil again outwardly marks the baptisand and as “sealed by the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ’s own forever.”
The gift of a small congregation shines bright during life’s celebration. Each baptism is a reflection of the family. Reverend Stacy works with each family to customize their needs, including meeting with godparents in-person or digitally. Children create their own baptismal candle. The whole community gathers together to welcome the newest member into the household of God. The baptized person is the guest of honor throughout the celebration. The commitment of baptism is celebrated at every age. In the Episcopal Church it is most common for children, but an equally important decision that teenagers and adults can make as they are ready to claim their identity as a Christian.
The historic baptismal font is outside, creating the options of being baptized inside or outside. The wooden font made during restoration sits at the bottom of the pulpit as you enter the church, reminding us of our Baptismal Community.
We believe every person, regardless of age, ability, or experience, is called towards ministry. Ministry is the embodiment of the Baptismal Covenant: what we are called to be and do for God’s kingdom, and in the eyes of God, all ministries are equal.
The Baptismal Covenant
Do you believe in God the Father?
I believe in God, the Father almighty, creator of heaven and earth.
Do you believe in Jesus Christ, the Son of God?
I believe in Jesus Christ, his only Son, our Lord. He was conceived by the power of the Holy Spirit and born of the Virgin Mary. He suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried. He descended to the dead. On the third day he rose again. He ascended into heaven, and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again to judge the living and the dead.
Do you believe in God the Holy Spirit?
I believe in the Holy Spirit, the holy catholic Church, the communion of saints, the forgiveness of sins, the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.
Will you commit to these things?
Will you continue in the apostles' teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and in the prayers?
I will, with God’s help.
Will you persevere in resisting evil, and, whenever you fall into sin, repent and return to the Lord?
I will, with God’s help.
Will you proclaim by word and example the Good News of God in Christ?
I will, with God’s help.
Will you seek and serve Christ in all persons, loving your neighbor as yourself?
I will, with God’s help.
Will you strive for justice and peace among all people, and respect the dignity of every human being?
I will, with God’s help.
