The Small Catechism - By Martin Luther

What is baptism?  

Baptism is not simply water.  Instead, it is water used according to God's command and connected with God's Word.

What is this Word of God?  

As recorded in Matthew 28:19, our Lord Jesus Christ said, "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

What gifts or benefits does Baptism grant?

It brings about forgiveness of sins, redeems from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe, as the Word and promise of God declare.

What is this Word and promise of God?  

As recorded in Mark 16:16, our Lord Christ said, "The one who believes and is baptized will be saved, but the one who does not believe will be condemned."

How can water produce such great effects?

Clearly, the water does not do it, but the Word of God, which is with and alongside the water, and faith, which trusts this word of God in the water. For without the word of God the water is plain water and not a baptism, but with the word of God it is a baptism, that is, a grace-filled water of life and a “bath of the new birth in the Holy Spirit,” as St. Paul says to Titus in chapter three: "through the water of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit.  This Spirit is poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, so that, having been justified by his grace, we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life. This saying is sure."

 Baptism

A Critical First Step   

It is the Church’s understanding that baptism is a critical first step in the Christian life of every believer. We believe that baptism brings individuals into the family of God. It forgives our sins and makes us members of God’s family. Baptism is the first step on a life-long journey of faith. The faith that begins at baptism must be nurtured and strengthened for a lifetime. This is done through regular worship, fellowship, studying the Scriptures, and service. The Bible reminds us that if this faith is neglected, it may die.

A Meeting with the Pastor   

Call the church office and ask the Pastor for a time to meet to discuss Baptism with you. At this time, the Pastor will describe the Baptism service in the church. This meeting will help you understand the Baptism Service and the promises that you will be asked to make before God and God’s people.

Promises   

At the time of your baptism, you will promise to continue in the covenant God makes with you in Holy      Baptism, living among God’s people.  You will promise to hear God’s Word and share in the Lord’s Supper.  You will promise to proclaim the good news of Jesus in word and deed, serving all people in the manner Christ served.

Sponsors   

You will be asked to have Baptismal Sponsors present at your Baptism.  Your Sponsors should be Christian people who are willing to support you in caring for your   spiritual needs.  

When?   

Baptisms normally  take place in a Christian worship service before a group of gathered believers. Because Lutherans believe that Holy Baptism brings an    individual into the family of God, the church  needs to be part of this important event.

Except in the case of emergencies, private Baptisms are discouraged at Gethsemane because they tend to disconnect Baptism from the wider life of the Church and its people.  

As you make plans, know that our Sunday worship occurs at 9:00 am.  We prefer to have no more than 3 baptisms per service.  

All baptisms are entered into the permanent records of this congregation and you will be issued a certificate.

Adult and Children Baptism Resources below