Baptisms

Baptisms

Baptists have a distinctive understanding of baptism which is different from some other Christian denominations.

(See Beliefs)

Believer’s Baptism is for people who have decided for themselves to commit their lives to Jesus Christ, and normally happens by being fully immersed in water in the baptismal pool at the front of

Baptisms usually take place on Sunday mornings as part of the service, and are often followed by a shared lunch for the whole church afterwards. They are wonderful times of celebration and joy.

In order to prepare a person for baptism a short course is taken in the weeks leading up to it.

If you have any questions about how to begin a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, we would love to walk with you in your journey.

Further information and enquiries can be made from the ministers via the church office on (01803) 522541, or via the Contact Us page

the church. This symbolises dying to our old self through repentance, and rising again to new life in Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit. Often a person being baptised will give a brief testimony to those present, or else answer some questions about what has brought them to this decision.

What Baptism Symbolises

Baptism is a way of showing others that you have entered into a relationship with Jesus Christ. It symbolises what took place in your heart at the time of salvation:

The acceptance of Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior.
Your sharing in His death and resurrection,symbolised by going under the water (dead to your old life), then rising again (to your new life).
You were symbolically washed clean and sins were forgiven by His death on the cross.

Because Jesus instructed us to be baptised, baptism is an act of obedience. While it is not necessary for salvation, it demonstrates submission to God.

Dedication of Children

Some denominations choose to christen infants. While we recognise the right of other churches to practice infant christening, we understand Scripture to teach that only professing believers qualify for baptism.

Baptism does not make you a believer, rather it shows that you already believe.

However we do perform a ceremony of Dedication. Dedication is a brief and simple ceremony where a family gives thanks to God for the birth of a daughter or son, and the parent(s) make some promises to bring him/her up as best as they are able.

(See the Dedications page)