Holy Baptism
A Word from our pastor
Pastor Aaron Smith shares what Baptism means at Grace Lutheran — and why we celebrate every Baptism as a congregation.
HOW TO SCHEDULE a baptism
Baptisms at Grace Lutheran are a celebration for the whole congregation. Here is what to expect.
1. Submit the Request Form
Complete the Baptism Request Form below. This gives Pastor Smith what he needs to reach out and begin planning with your family.
2. Meet with Pastor Smith
Pastor will schedule a brief meeting to walk through what Baptism means, answer your questions, and confirm a date.
3. Confirm Your Sponsors
Share the names of your chosen sponsors. Pastor will communicate expectations and answer their questions.
4. Celebrate on Sunday
Baptisms take place during the regular Sunday morning service. The whole congregation witnesses and rejoices together.
Schedule a Baptism
Click the button below to fill out a brief request form. Pastor Smith will contact you to answer questions and help schedule a baptism.
For non-members, a donation is requested to help us continue offering this service.
WHAT IS BAPTISM?
Baptism is not merely a symbolic ceremony or a public profession of faith. It is a holy act instituted by Christ himself — a means of grace through which God genuinely works.
Water and God’s Word are joined together to deliver what Christ promises: forgiveness of sins, rescue from death and the devil, and eternal salvation. God is acting on behalf of a person — not the other way around.
Whether you are bringing an infant or coming as an adult, the promise is the same. A life is being claimed by the Triune God.
“Baptism now saves you — not as a removal of dirt from the body but as an appeal to God for a good conscience, through the resurrection of Jesus Christ.” — 1 Peter 3:21
God’s Gifts in the Water
Forgiveness of Sins and The Holy Spirit — Acts 2:38
New Birth and Regeneration — Titus 3:5
Union with Christ — Romans 6:4–5
Holiness — Ephesians 5:26–27
WHAT WE BELIEVE ABOUT BAPTISM
Baptism is and does exactly what Scripture says. Romans 6 tells us that all who are baptized into Christ Jesus are baptized into His death — buried with Him, and raised to walk in newness of life. Baptism is something that happens to us. God does the work. It is not a human commitment, a parental dedication, or a pastoral act. Baptism is a work of God.
“For without God’s Word the water is plain water and no Baptism. But with the Word of God it is a Baptism — a life-giving water, rich in grace, and a washing of the new birth in the Holy Spirit.” — Martin Luther, Small Catechism
Infant Baptism
Grace Lutheran baptizes people of any age because Baptism is God’s work, and His promise belongs to everyone — including the youngest among us (Acts 2:39).
Adult Baptism
Adults who have not been baptized are warmly welcomed into a period of instruction. First Communion Instruction and Confirmation follow.
Sponsors and Godparents
Sponsors commit to encourage the newly baptized in their life with God and His Church — including First Communion Instruction and Confirmation. For infants, sponsors also support the parents in raising their child in the faith.
Frequently asked questions
Does my child need to be baptized as an infant, or can we wait?
Lutherans encourage infant Baptism because God’s grace is not dependent on age or understanding, but on the promises of God. The promise belongs to your child now. That said, if you have questions or want to talk through the timing, Pastor Smith is happy to walk through that with you without pressure.
Can adults be baptized at Grace Lutheran?
Absolutely. Adults who have never been baptized are warmly welcomed. We typically walk through a period of instruction first so that Baptism is received with understanding and celebrated fully. Contact the office to get started.
I was baptized in another denomination. Do I need to be re-baptized?
If you were baptized with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, your Baptism is valid and recognized at Grace Lutheran. We do not re-baptize. If you have questions about your specific situation, please speak with Pastor Smith.
What if my child was baptized somewhere else, do you have a record?
Baptismal records are kept by the congregation where the Baptism took place. Contact that church for an official certificate. If you need help locating records, our office is happy to assist.
Is there a fee for the Baptism service?
Please contact the church office for information on any fees or suggested contributions associated with facility use and pastoral services. For families who are not currently members of Grace Lutheran, a donation is requested to help us continue offering these services to families in our community for years to come.
Who can serve as a sponsor (godparent)?
Grace Lutheran asks that sponsors understand baptism and commit to encourage the newly baptized in their life with God and His Church, including future First Communion Instruction and Confirmation. If the one baptized is an infant, sponsors also promise to encourage the parents in raising their child in the Christian faith. If you have questions about a specific person, please ask Pastor Smith.
How many sponsors does my child need?
Traditionally, one or two sponsors is customary. There is no strict maximum, but the role of a sponsor is one of spiritual encouragement and accountability, so it is worth choosing thoughtfully rather than broadly.
When during the service does the Baptism take place?
Baptisms at Grace Lutheran take place during the regular Sunday morning worship service. Pastor Smith will let you know the specific placement in the service when you meet to plan.
How long does the Baptism rite itself take?
The rite typically takes about 10 minutes within the service. Staged pictures are taken after the service.
Can we take photos and video during the Baptism?
Yes. We encourage families to capture this moment. We only ask that photographers be respectful of the worship service and space.
Do guests need to be members of Grace Lutheran to attend?
Not at all. Family and friends are warmly welcome to attend the Sunday service to witness the Baptism. We are glad to have them. We direct all guests to our Communion Statement, as Grace regularly offers Holy Communion in her services.
What should we wear?
There is no required or expected attire.
Family heirloom baptismal gowns are a wonderful tradition that we support.
Do we need to bring anything with us?
A camera or phone if you would like to capture the moment. We encourage it.
For infants: anything that helps the baby feel comfortable before the service.
A heart ready to receive what God is giving. Everything else, we provide.
The font, water, candle, and baptismal shell are all provided by Grace Lutheran. You do not need to bring anything for the rite itself.