BAPTISM

In it we are buried with Christ in his death. By it we share in his resurrection. Through it we are reborn by the Holy Spirit.
                                    — The Book of Common Prayer

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism—administered with water and “in the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit”—is initiation into Christ’s Body the Church. The grace of Baptism is union with Jesus Christ and his Church, forgiveness of sins, and new life in the Holy Spirit.

We celebrate Holy Baptism on designated feast days and other scheduled Sundays (and a few Saturdays) throughout the year.

Adults

Adults who desire to receive the Sacrament of Baptism (and/or Confirmation) must attend “The Inquirer’s Class,” our month-long baptism and confirmation preparation class for adults. The class is offered twice a year, beginning in September and February. Click here to learn more.

Infants & Children

The practice of baptizing infants and young children derives from the baptism of adults. The Church does not simply baptize any child, but those who are the children (or in the care) of at least one baptized Christian parent or guardian. The Church baptizes those who will grow up within the sphere of the Church. Accordingly, we expect the following of parents and godparents of infants and young children whom they wish to present for Holy Baptism:

Baptism Preparation Class

Parents of children who will soon be baptized must attend our baptism preparation class for parents offered quarterly on Sunday mornings. The class explores the origins of baptism in Scripture as well as what our Prayer Book and Anglican tradition teach us about this Sacrament of New Birth.

We also examine the role of godparents and how to choose them, along with practical advice on how to incorporate the Christian faith in the daily life of your family, with particular care being given to using the Prayer Book.

  • At least one of the parents or grandparents must be a baptized member of St Stephen’s Church.
  • Godparents must be baptized Christians, and should be active, mature, and faithful members of the Church.
  • Parents and godparents should be able to affirm in good faith the promises they will make on behalf of the child.
  • If the parents are not members of St Stephen’s, but for some pressing reason wish to have their child baptized here, they must demonstrate comparable membership in another Parish. A letter or a phone call from the member of the clergy of that parish is required in these cases, and the final decision is made by the Rector.

Baptism Request Form

Do you desire Holy Baptism for yourself or your child? Submit the form below to take the next step.