Baptism

Baptism is a sacrament within The United Methodist Church and is considered an outward and visible sign of the inward grace of God at work in the lives of all people.  Baptism is initiated by God and is a sign of God’s grace that has been at work in our lives before we were aware of it.  In the life of the baptized person, baptism represents receiving the Holy Spirit, being initiated into the body of Christ, forgiveness of our sins, and a time of new birth.

People of all ages, including infants, are welcomed to be baptized within The United Methodist Church.  Matthew 19:14 reminds us that little children belong in God’s Kingdom by saying: “Let the little children come to me, and do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of heaven belongs.”  Infant baptism represents the baptized child’s inclusion into God’s Kingdom.  When a child is baptized, his/her parent(s) promise to set a Christian example and teach and guide their child(ren) into becoming mature disciples of Jesus Christ until the child(ren) can make a decision for themselves to follow Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.  The congregation also makes a pledge to nurture and encourage the child(ren) in their faith.

For those who were not baptized as infants, The United Methodist Church also practices youth and adult baptism.  When an adult makes a profession of faith, they are baptized with water, representing that they are welcomed into the family of God and marked as a disciple of Jesus Christ.

If you have questions regarding baptism at Royston First United Methodist Church, please contact Matt Parker. If you would like to schedule a baptism for yourself or your child, please contact our church office at office@roystonfirstumc.org.