Baptism

Baptism is an initiation process that expresses our desire to have a relationship with Jesus Christ and the Church. The priest pours water on the candidate's head three times and says, "[Name], I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." The candidate is also anointed with Chrism oil, blessed by the bishop, a sign and symbol that the candidate has been "sealed with the Holy Spirit and marked as Christ's own for all time."

Newborns and adults alike

In the Episcopal Church we baptize both newborns and adults, following the tradition of the early church, because we believe God's love extends to everyone regardless of age or comprehension of doctrine. Any baptismal candidate is urged to have godparents or sponsors who commit to encouraging the newly baptized to follow the Christian faith.

When baptisms happen

Baptism is typically celebrated at the Sunday Eucharist, as the community vows to support the baptized in their faith development. The traditional days are the feast of the Baptism of Our Lord in January, the Easter Vigil or Easter Sunday, the feast of Pentecost, and All Saints (November 1).

However, the rite of baptism is available at any time of year. We can baptize when those who should be there are present, when the candidate (or their parents) is ready, and when the church community comes together in support. God greets you.

Getting started

If you or a loved one would like to be baptized, please contact the Parish Office at parishoffice@stmaryslb.org and we'll walk you through the baptism form and next steps.