The Rite of Baptism

FAQs

What is Baptism?

Baptism is one of the two sacraments of the Lutheran Church. This means that it is very important to us. It is one of the fundamental teachings of the Church. It is the way in which we become part of God’s family. It is, therefore, sometimes called “rebirth.”

It is also an initiation into the membership of Zion Lutheran. It is one of the most important events in a person’s life.

Who can be baptized?

We baptize infants and adults. Lutherans believe that baptism is a gift of God’s grace. It is not something that is ours because of our goodness, or faithfulness, or anything else. Since it is a gift of God, it is freely given to all. Adults are baptized in the expression of their own faith, children are baptized out of the faith of their parents and sponsors.

Where should the baptism take place and when?

Baptism is a rite of incorporation into the body of Christ, which is the church. So Baptism is not a private act. It is proper, therefore, for the baptism to take place during a regular scheduled worship service on Sunday morning. Under special circumstances, a private baptism can be performed at the pastor’s discretion. But the normal place and time for baptism is at the church during a Sunday morning service.

Who should sponsors be?

The primary sponsors of children are their parents. However, additional sponsors may be chosen. Sponsors should be adults who are practicing Christians, with a mature faith and reverence for God. They should be persons who will spiritually remain close to the baptized child. Parents will have the primary responsibility of developing a vital Christian life, but sponsors will support the parents and broaden the child’s Christian growth. Because of their mutual responsibility, parents and sponsors should participate in the baptismal service.

What promise, or vows, will I make for my child in Baptism?

You will renounce all the forces of evil, the devil and all his empty promises.
You will confess your faith in God as Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
You will promise to faithfully bring your child to worship.
You will teach your child the Lord’s Prayer, the Creed, and the Ten Commandments.
As your child grows in years, you will provide for his/her Christian instruction.

These are very sacred and important promises. As it would be cruel to give birth to a child and then not feed it, so it is not good to baptize a child and then not fulfill the vows you have made. If you cannot fulfill these vows in sincerity, perhaps now is not the time to baptize your child. I would be willing to work with you to help you come to that place in your own spiritual life where you can in confidence make these promises. This would be a more responsible act.

How do I keep these vows for my child?

A parent has many responsibilities for a child; this is one of the most important. Prayer is a start of the fulfillment of these vows. Each day you should pray for your child. Family devotions, Bible reading, and Worship are good ways to teach your child prayers, the creed, and the 10 commandments.

Zion Lutheran also takes seriously its responsibility to you and your child. We will assist you in this faith journey. Our congregation provides a Worship and Sunday School program for children from preschool age 3 and up. We have nursery facilities at worship so you can attend while your child is cared for by a qualified person. From time to time we present adult learning experiences that help in child rearing and spiritual growth for you. Please check The Messenger, our parish newsletter, or this website for such opportunities.

I stand ready to help you in any way I can to fully fulfill the vows you make on your child’s baptismal day. These are the answers to the most asked questions about baptism. There are others, I’m sure. You are invited to call the office (419-433-4711) and set up an appointment to discuss baptisms at Zion.

Yours in Christ,

Rev. Raymond H. Vance
Pastor

Zion Evangelical Lutheran Church

930 South Main Street
Huron, Ohio 44839
419-433-4711