Baptism
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism—administered with water and “In the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”—is initiation into Christ’s Body, the Church. The grace of Baptism is union with Jesus Christ and his Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit.
The Baptism of Adults
Adults and older children who desire to receive the Sacrament of Baptism require a period of instruction with one of the parish clergy as a necessary part of their preparation, along with regular attendance at the Sunday Eucharist.
The Baptism of Infants and Young Children
The Church does not simply baptize any child, but those who are the children (or in the care) of baptized Christian parents, who will raise them within the sphere of the Church. Therefore, St. Matthew’s has the following requirements for the parents and godparents of infants and young children whom they wish to be baptized.
- At least one of the parents must be a baptized member of St. Matthew’s who has supported the life of the parish by regular Sunday attendance.
- If the parents are not members of the parish but, for some pressing reason, wish their child to be baptized here, they must demonstrate comparable membership in another parish. A letter from a member of the clergy of that parish is required in these cases.
- Godparents must be baptized Christians and should be active, mature, faithful members of the Christian Church. Their role is to support and aid parents in their responsibility to raise up their children in the Christian faith and life.
- Parents and godparents must be able to affirm in all good faith and for themselves the promises made on behalf of the child, as well as the teaching of the Apostles’ Creed, which is the substance of the baptismal affirmation and the Christian faith (BCP pp. 302-305).
Do you desire Holy Baptism for yourself or your child? Submit the form below to
Katy to take the next step.
Baptism Request Form
Confirmation
All Church members are expected to make a mature public affirmation of their faith and commitment to the responsibilities of their baptism through Confirmation. The classes emphasize basic Christianity, worship, prayer, ministry, evangelism, stewardship, and gifts and interest’s assessment.
- Adult Confirmation Classes are required for teens or adults wishing to be confirmed.
- Youth Confirmation Classes are for 7th and 8th graders.
Please contact Father David with any questions regarding Baptism or Confirmation.