Baptisms/Dedications
Baptism/Dedication is a celebration of the gift of a child from God. It is a recognition that such children are not ours to do with as we wish, but are responsibilities from God. He calls us to raise them within the love of the Church. It is recognition on your part, and on the Church, that we together have a responsibility to nurture this child in Christ. Baptisms/Dedications are performed at Bath Church for church members, their family members and residents of the Bath Community and can be arranged for inclusion in Sunday worship on a date mutually agreed upon by the minister and parents. Call the church office to schedule.
TYPICAL ORDER OF BAPTISM
The ushers have reserved seats for you and your visitors near the front of the Sanctuary.
Baptisms usually take place after the Children’s Moment. While the hymn is sung, you will be invited to bring your child forward to stand behind the baptismal font. We suggest that siblings not come forward with their new brother or sister, as they often become a distraction; however, this is your choice.
The scripture reading will be read by one of the pastors.
A statement about baptism will be given, and then you will be asked to affirm your faith by responding, “we do” to the following questions:
- Do you believe in God as your Creator, in Christ as your Savior, and in the Holy Spirit as your guide and companion?
- Do you promise, according to the grace given you, to teach this child the good news of the Christian faith, and to help him/her to be a faithful member of the church of Jesus Christ, so that she/he may affirm his/her baptism?
The congregation will be asked to respond. Following a prayer, the pastor will take your child into his arms and ask you, “by what name will your child be called?” Then, the pastor will baptize your child. The pastor will then informally introduce your child to the congregation and close with a unison prayer.
You are invited to stay in the service with your child. However, if he or she becomes restless, we encourage you to step out into the Cry Room or Narthex at any time.
Since this is a special event in your life, we want to make it as meaningful as we can for you. We invite you to select the scripture, hymns or readings you wish to use.
HYMNS
Here is a list of several hymns that are appropriate for use in Baptismal or dedication services.
This Child We Dedicate To Thee
Jesus Loves Me, This I Know
Jesus Loves the Little Children
Savior, Like a Shepherd Lead Us
Come, Holy Spirit, Dove Divine
Child of Blessing, Child of Promise
SCRIPTURE READINGS
The following are several readings from scripture that are appropriate for a baptismal service.
Proverbs 22:6
Ephesians 6:1-6
Matthew 18:1-5
Mark 9:35-37
Mark 10:13-16
Acts 16:25-35
Psalm 127
Psalm 128