Baptism- "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name
of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." (Matthew 28:19)
Peace Lutheran Church, Galion, Ohio

Holy Baptism is a gift of God's grace. It is not our reason that makes us eligible to be
Baptized. How can we understand this great mystery, at what age? It is not the water
such word of God in the water. St. Paul says in Titus chapter three: "He saved us
through the washing rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit,
whom He poured out on us generously through Jesus Christ
our Savior.
In Baptism, God covenants with
us to be in a relationship with us.
We are never alone! God makes a
promise that He will continually
love and forgive us throughout
our entire lives.
Through Baptism we are liberated from sin and death and we join in the death and
resurrection of Jesus. Jesus Christ - our living, risen Savior - has given us the gift of
salvation. Our sins are forgiven, we are accepted as children of God, and we become
disciples to Jesus.
It is in Baptism that we proclaim who we are: CHRISTIANS. The great reformer,
Martin Luther talks about having a daily reminder of our Baptism, that is, hearing over
again the promise which was made in our Baptism: God has claimed us. When an adult
makes this commitment to participate in the living body of Christ, the church is there
to invite, instruct and encourage the person in their journey with Christ together.
Steps For You To be Baptized
1. A person as an adult or ready to have their
child Baptized should contact the church.
2. A meeting with the pastor is appropriate.
This is a time to discuss personal/family background
concerning experience with churches and faith issues.
This helps the pastor become familiar with the person's situation.
3. We ask that the person/family begin worshiping with us. A minimum of four times is
appropriate so that the person/family is familiar with our worship and community life.
4. Members are received into the family of God at Peace several times a year, and baptisms
usually take place at those times during our primary worship service. The main baptismal
service of the year is Easter, however other times this special service is scheduled.
5. A family desiring a child to be baptized will be given material to read. The pastor will follow
up with the family about any questions. If the child is three years or older, we suggest that the
family enroll in Sunday School as well. Discipleship should begin at the earliest time possible.
This helps the child better understand what church life is.
6. The adult or family of a child to be Baptized needs to schedule the baptisms at least two
weeks in advance of the desired date.
Parent's and Adults Promises
To present one self as a believer and/or their child for Holy Baptism. And as an adult
or parent are so doing so as an act of Christian love. This action begins at Baptism and
continues through life.
- In the worship service of Baptism, parents promise to fulfill the following
obligation:
- To faithfully come as an adult and bring their child to worship.
- To learn and teach them the Lord's Prayer, the Creed, and the Ten
Commandments;
- To open the Holy Scriptures;
- To provide for your instruction and the family in the Christian faith;
- To be a teacher and example of how to live the covenant of Baptism;
- To share the joy and salvation given by God to your family and friends.
We can not do this as individuals alone; it requires the entire community of faith to
help "make" a Christian, with the Holy Spirit's guidance. Staying connected to a
worshiping community is the best way to fulfill the promises we make and as parents,
when we decide to be Baptized Christians.
Sponsor's Promise:
Sponsors fulfill an important role for the family which brings a child to Baptism. They
are to be an example of Christian living, a prayer partner and a source of
encouragement along the Christian journey.
A sponsor is not required though we encourage the family to be intentional about this
choice and together you will celebrate this new life with Christ.
"You belong here with as much right to the name Christians as anyone. God is building a
home."
(Ephesians 2:19 MSG)




