Baptism

What is Baptism?

Baptism is an ancient ritual of the church that symbolically depicts the death and resurrection of Christ. The word ‘baptise’ comes from a Greek word that means ‘to immerse in water.’ There are many ways that baptism is celebrated in the various Christian denominations – full immersion in water, pouring water, sprinkling, only for adults, only for babies, for infants or adults.

At CCH, we baptise people who are old enough to meaningfully profess their faith, by fully immersing them in water.

Why are we baptised?

To follow the example set by Christ

“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was baptised by John in the Jordan.” Mark 1:9

Because Christ commands it

“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.” Matthew 28:19-20

It illustrates Christ’s death, burial and resurrection, and it also illustrates my new life as a Christian

“Having been buried with him in baptism and raised with him through your faith in the power of God, who raised him from the dead.” Colossians 2:12

Who should be baptised?

Every person who has believed in Christ

“Those who accepted his message were baptised...” Acts 2:41

At Community Church Hornsby, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of faith in Christ before we baptise them. We encourage believers who have already been ‘baptised’ as infants to be baptised by immersion now that they believe for themselves. It is a statement of their own faith, not a statement of their parents’ faith. As a practical guideline then, we baptise teenagers and older.

When should I be baptised?

As soon as you have trusted Christ for salvation, you can and should be baptised.

There is no reason to delay. If you haven’t been baptised yet, see one of the Pastors or Elders who will record your desire and inform the Pastoral Team.

Who can baptise me?

Any of our Pastors or key ministry leaders can baptise you.

Normally, two people will officiate at your baptism. One of them will be a key ministry leader (you can request a particular leader if you wish), and the other may be another leader, junior leader, or a significant person in your new Christian life. Speak to one of the Pastors or Elders, and we’ll help you with this.

What should I wear?

The key is modesty.

Baptism candidates typically wear shorts or jeans and a modest t-shirt.

February 26 at 7pm there will be water baptisms

For more information and call 9482 2479