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Baptism
Pastor - Rev. Eric Peterson
Baby Baptism Ceremony

“Remember your baptism and be thankful.” For what, though, are we giving thanks, and what are we remembering? Matt 3:13-17

Baptism information comes from an article written by David Gambrell, Associate for Worship from Presbyterian Church USA, you can read the full article at the link below.

What is Baptism?

Baptism is one of two sacraments practiced by Presbyterians; Communion is the other. The act of baptism is deceptively simple—but in a handful of water, there is a deep well of mystery and meaning.

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In baptism, we are called to a new way of life as Christ’s disciples, sharing the good news of the gospel with all the world.

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Presbyterians describe baptism as a sign and seal of the covenant of grace made by God through Jesus and extended to us. In baptism, God claims us as beloved children and members of Christ’s body, the church, washing us clean from sin as we renounce the power of evil and seek the will and way of God.

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Presbyterians have recognized baptism as one of two sacraments initiated by Christ in Scripture. All four Gospels report the baptism of Jesus by John in the Jordan River (Matt. 3:13–17; Mark 1:9–11; Luke 3:21–22; John 1:29–34). When we are baptized with water in the name of the Trinity, we share in Christ’s own baptism.

Where do we perform Baptisms?

Presbyterians celebrate baptism as a communal act of public worship. In the Middle Ages, baptism came to be an increasingly private, family affair, separated from worship. The Protestant Reformation sought to change that, arguing that the power of baptism did not come from the act itself, but from its connection with the promise of God conveyed in Scripture. That’s why Presbyterian baptism is always accompanied by the proclamation of the Word in the context of public worship. Luther and Calvin also insisted that baptism be followed by ongoing instruction in the faith, particularly through the study of the Bible and catechisms.

Who can be baptized?

Presbyterians practice both adult and infant baptism. Infant baptism expresses that it is God who chooses us for faith, discipleship, and salvation; without God, we have no power to claim these things for ourselves. However, we affirm that people come to faith at different stages in life, and recognize the baptism of older believers as an equally valid expression of the sacrament.

How to plan a baptism during our Worship

Preparing for baptism requires a meeting with our Pastor for planning the date and time for the baptism.   You will need to select sponsors to be present at the baptism, and they will assist the family in nurturing the child's life in Christ.

Weddings
Pastor - Rev. Eric Peterson
What is marriage?

Marriage is a gift God has given to all humankind for the well-being of the entire human family. Marriage involves a unique commitment between two people to love and support each other for the rest of their lives. The sacrificial love that unites the couple sustains them as faithful and responsible members of the church and the wider community.

In civil law, marriage is a contract that recognizes the rights and obligations of the married couple in society. In the Reformed tradition, marriage is also a covenant in which God has an active part, and which the community of faith publicly witnesses and acknowledges.

Marriage Preparation

Marriage preparation is very informal and requires a meeting with our Pastor to get to know the couple and to discuss the needs for their ceremony.

Ceremony Planning and Scheduling

Contact our church office to inquire on available dates and to schedule a planning meeting with our Pastor.

Ceremony Fees

A fee is assessed for non-members of our church and will be reviewed at the planning meeting with our Pastor.

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