Baptism is the sacrament by which a person is welcomed into the body of Christ--the church. In this sacrament, one announces the intention of leading a new life in Christ according to the Baptismal Covenant in The Book of Common Prayer. This spells out the beliefs and practices involved in being a follower of Jesus according to the tradition of the Anglican/Episcopal Church. Baptism by water in the name of the Father, Son and the Holy Spirit makes the child or adult a baptized member of the church. This is followed by the pronouncement that the newly baptized is hereby sealed as Christ's own forever. We say a beautiful prayer (see below), then celebrate together our newest member.

Heavenly Father, we thank you that by water and the Holy Spirit you have bestowed upon these your servants the forgiveness of sin, and have raised them to the new life of grace.
Sustain them, O Lord, in your Holy Spirit.
Give them an inquiring and discerning heart, the courage to will and to persevere, a spirit to know and to love you, and the gift of joy and wonder in all your works. 
​Amen.

Arranging a Baptism
This is a big deal--not to be entered into lightly. Those considering baptism for themselves, their children, or their godchildren should contact Father Matt through the church office. 

Baptism itself, except in rare cases, is performed within the service of Holy Eucharist on Sunday mornings (or on the evening of the Easter Vigil, an especially appropriate time for adult baptisms).