What is baptism?

Baptism celebrates that you have given your life to Jesus and believe in him. It is a public declaration that Jesus has washed you clean and that you are now one of his followers.

“But baptism is more than just washing your body. It means turning to God with a clear conscience, because Jesus Christ was raised from death.” 1 Peter 3:21

Who should be baptised?

If you believe that Jesus died on the cross to forgive you of all your sin and to bring you back into relationship with your Father in heaven, you are what the Bible calls ‘born again’. As a sign of your new life, you should do what all believers do: be baptised.

“Those who believed and accepted his message were baptised.” Acts 2:41

Why get baptised?

It is not a question of whether believing is or is not enough. Our relationship with God is based on what Jesus did, not on what any of us do—baptism included. We get baptised simply because Jesus wants everyone who believes to be baptised just as he himself was.

“Go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20

Method of baptism

Churches follow different traditions when it comes to baptism. At our church, we baptise people the way Jesus was baptised – by full immersion in water, when they’re old enough to know what they’re doing. If you were baptised as a baby, that was an expression of your parents’ faith. It is time to make your own.

“As they travelled along the road, they came to some water and the man said, ‘Look, here is water. Why shouldn’t I be baptised?’”Acts 8:36

How should I prepare?

At our church, we will give you the opportunity to tell people publicly why you want to be baptised and what has brought you to this point. If this worries you, any of the leaders will help you. Simply, tell people what Jesus means to you. It is not an exam – just speak from your heart. If you find it helpful, you can write a few lines down beforehand and read them out. You will have 2-3 mins to share your story.

What does the baptism service look like?

The service coordinator will meet with you and the rest of the people being baptised and walk you through the program. This is also the time for you to ask any last minute questions you might have.

You will need to bring the following along with you:

• Dark coloured t-shirt

• Dark coloured shorts

• Towel

• Change of clothes