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baptism
Baptism at St. Mark Lutheran Church
We are not born Christian. We are made Christians by the gracious act of God in baptism. We learn of this by the faithful practice of our families, pastors, and congregations that nurture and challenge our faith--who show us what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ and encourage us in our paths of discipleship.
Jesus commanded his church to make disciples. We do that in a sacramental way in the rite of baptism. But baptism itself is not all that goes into making a Christian. When a family brings a baby into church for baptism, this is the first step on a long journey. In fact, this is acknowledged in the baptismal rite. The parents are told there is a lot of work that goes into making this child into a Christian. At St. Mark we help the families by teaching them to help their child learn the Christian story, how to grow as a spiritual person, and that baptism is something special in the life of our parish community. We take very seriously the promises to help taise the newly baptized into the image of Jesus Christ.
Our approach is to help families live into the promises they make at baptism and to make Christians in their homes. This is begun by offering four classes of instruction led by Pastor Erdos. The topics of discussion include Christian formation, the spirituality of children, family systems, and the meaning of the promises parents make at the baptism of their child.
Baptisms will be held five times in the course of the year. These will be at times that are liturgically significant for baptism in the life of the Christian community and include:
The Baptism of our Lord
Easter Vigil
Pentecost
All Saint's Day (Sunday)
Some dates in late summer/early fall.
This will allow time for preparation for baptism and to plan for family members to attend. On these Sundays, there will be a focus on the baptism of these children as well as a reception following Sunday liturgies to celebrate these gifts from God.
God remakes all of us in baptism. The lives of everyone touched by the waters of baptism are transformed by the power of the Spirit. If you desire baptism, please contact the church office to enroll in the next baptismal classes.
