Baptism

The Bible says, ’change your thinking (repent) and be baptised’ [Acts 2:38].

Baptism is about ‘going public’ with your faith. It’s the next step in following Christ. 

Be baptised as a believer because you want to:

• follow the example set by Jesus;
• identify with Jesus through his death, burial and resurrection;
• obey the Bible's teaching.

When someone who had always felt on the outside heard about the radical good news of Jesus, on seeing some open water, they said:

"Here is water! Why shouldn't I be baptised?" [Acts 8:3]

It's a great question!  Are you starting to ask questions about baptism?

If you haven’t yet been baptised as a believer and think God may be nudging you, talk to us!

Scroll down for some FAQs and short explanatory videos.

FAQs

I was Baptised or Christened as a baby. Does that count?
If baptism is about belief in Christ, we think only YOU can decide if Baptism is right for you. Like other church traditions, we celebrate the gift of new life. We thank God for babies and 'dedicate' them, but we hold off baptism until such time as the person grows to an age they can make their own decision to be baptised. 

I went through Confirmation in another church tradition. Does that count?
You decide! We recognise that, for some who've come to us from other church traditions, their Confirmation was, for them, a deeply personal and significant moment of 'going public' with their faith in Christ. Great! However, others may still want to experience the joy and blessing of being baptised as a follower of Christ.

Is there an age limit?
No. It's believers' baptism, not adult baptism. It's for those who have chosen to follow Christ.

Do I have to be baptised to become a Church Member?

Yes. As a Baptist church, membership is open to those who have put their faith in Jesus Christ and have been baptised by as believers.

We believe that believers' baptism is an important step of obedience and discipleship, following the pattern found in the New Testament. Baptism is a public declaration of faith in Christ and an expression of commitment to follow him as part of his church.

If you have not yet been baptised as a believer but are interested in church membership, we would be delighted to talk with you about what baptism means and how you can take this step of faith. We warmly welcome everyone to worship with us and explore the Christian faith, whether or not they are members

Do I have to wear special clothes!
No! Just wear what's comfortable (and not too 'see through' when wet!). Baptism is not a formal event or ceremony. Come as you are! 

Can I invite people to watch my baptism?
Yes, please do! It's a great opportunity to invite family, friends, neighbours, and colleagues to share in your faith journey.

What if I'm physically or medically not capable of entering the baptism pool?
What matters most is your heart. If you can't come to water, we can bring water to you, in a church service or, if necessary, at your home, in hospital /hospice.

Thinking about being baptised?
Talk to one of the Leadership Team (Deacons).