Baptism |
Baptism marks a commitment to a life in the Christian faith. We make vows to follow Jesus’ teachings, and we commit to support each other in that commitment. We pray for the gift of grace to stand up when we stumble. We pray for the daily presence of the Holy Spirit to guide and sustain us. We pray to be blessed with the gifts of inquiring and discerning hearts, with courage to will and to persevere, with a gentle spirit to know and to love God, and with the gifts of joy and wonder in all God's works.
At St. Christopher’s, Holy Baptism is typically celebrated during the 10:00 am service on All Saints’ Sunday (November), the first Sunday of Epiphany (January), and the feast of Pentecost (May), and one Sunday as needed during the summer months. Because the meaning of baptism is intrinsically linked to the community of faith, private baptisms are not held except for significant pastoral reasons.
What is required for Baptism?
Participation in Christian Community. Baptism marks a commitment to a life in the Christian faith, and participation in a Christian community is essential to that life of faith. For that reason, baptism at St. Christopher’s is typically celebrated with those who are active participants in the life of this church. Life does have twists and turns though and sometimes one finds themselves desiring baptism, particularly for their child, but without a church home. If you are committed to raising your child in a Christian community, you are welcome to have your child baptized here.
Preparation for Baptism. For older children and adults who are to be baptized, preparation is determined in consultation with one of our clergy who will guide you and assist you in a way that fits your needs and questions. For parents of young children being presented for Baptism, the clergy will offer one of the following preparation options, based on the current baptism schedule:
Who will act as godparents or sponsors?It is typical that sponsors, often called godparents, stand with you or your child in their baptismal promises. Sponsors/godparents are people that you trust to nurture your or your child’s spiritual well-being and growth. You select these sponsors/godparents; one must be a practicing Christian, but they do not need to be Episcopalian. It is preferable that they are present at the baptism, but not required.
How can I schedule a baptism?
Please email the Rev. Chana Tetzlaff. If you are inquiring on behalf of a grandchild, please encourage the parent to reach out directly.
At St. Christopher’s, Holy Baptism is typically celebrated during the 10:00 am service on All Saints’ Sunday (November), the first Sunday of Epiphany (January), and the feast of Pentecost (May), and one Sunday as needed during the summer months. Because the meaning of baptism is intrinsically linked to the community of faith, private baptisms are not held except for significant pastoral reasons.
What is required for Baptism?
Participation in Christian Community. Baptism marks a commitment to a life in the Christian faith, and participation in a Christian community is essential to that life of faith. For that reason, baptism at St. Christopher’s is typically celebrated with those who are active participants in the life of this church. Life does have twists and turns though and sometimes one finds themselves desiring baptism, particularly for their child, but without a church home. If you are committed to raising your child in a Christian community, you are welcome to have your child baptized here.
Preparation for Baptism. For older children and adults who are to be baptized, preparation is determined in consultation with one of our clergy who will guide you and assist you in a way that fits your needs and questions. For parents of young children being presented for Baptism, the clergy will offer one of the following preparation options, based on the current baptism schedule:
- An in-person class held the day before the Baptism. The class focuses on the meaning of Baptism and the promises that you will make for your child. A rehearsal follows the class so you will be fully prepared for the Baptism on Sunday. Godparents are invited and encouraged to attend the class and rehearsal with you.
- An online class held the week before the Baptism with a ,rehearsal at 9:30am on the day of the service. Godparents are invited and encouraged to attend the class and rehearsal with you.
Who will act as godparents or sponsors?It is typical that sponsors, often called godparents, stand with you or your child in their baptismal promises. Sponsors/godparents are people that you trust to nurture your or your child’s spiritual well-being and growth. You select these sponsors/godparents; one must be a practicing Christian, but they do not need to be Episcopalian. It is preferable that they are present at the baptism, but not required.
How can I schedule a baptism?
Please email the Rev. Chana Tetzlaff. If you are inquiring on behalf of a grandchild, please encourage the parent to reach out directly.
