Baptism is a public declaration of a person’s acceptance of the gospel and their faith in Jesus Christ. Traditionally, it also marks a person joining the church.
WHY GET BAPTISED?
We get baptised because of the example of Jesus (Matt. 3:15) and his disciples (Acts 8:38), but also in obedience to Jesus’ command (Matt. 28:19). Baptism is a declaration of the gospel, in which we remember that Jesus’ death on our behalf washes away our sins and makes us clean before God.
Our ministry at St Andrew’s is to bring people to faith in Jesus. Hence, we encourage all who have come to faith to declare it publicly through baptism.
Baptism is normally administered during a Sunday service (sprinkling or full immersion). It is an occasion where the congregation can welcome new members, be reminded of their own profession of faith, and celebrate together the saving work of the Cross.
WHAT ABOUT CHILDREN?
The inclusion of children of believers into the faith community is a biblical principle (e.g. Gen. 12:1-3 & 17:1-8; Acts 2:39).
Children are baptised on the basis of their parents’ faith and the understanding that they are brought up as Christians within the church. In time, children will need to make their own profession of faith. Hence, we normally baptise children whose parents are baptised Christians and are active members of St Andrew’s. A ‘Thanksgiving for the Birth of a Child’ is offered to parents who do not wish to baptise their children for whatever reason.
WHAT SHOULD I DO IN ORDER TO BE BAPTISED?
St Andrew’s regularly conducts baptisms three times a year. If you are interested in being baptised, please contact one of the pastors. They will arrange to talk with you and explain more details. Additionally, people intending to be baptised will attend a compulsory preparation class.