Baptism
Holy Baptism
"Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ’s Body the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble."
— The Book of Common Prayer (1979)
At the Church of the Incarnation, Baptism is the beginning of a life lived in response to the love of God. In the waters of Baptism, we are joined to the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and become members of his risen Body, the Church. This is not symbolic language alone—it is a real and lasting bond, an indelible grace. As Rowan Williams writes, “To be baptized is to be told, you are loved, you are forgiven, you are part of God’s story.”
What is Baptism?
Baptism is one of the two great sacraments of the Church, the other being the Holy Eucharist. In Baptism, God acts with water and the Holy Spirit to claim us as God’s own. This sacred rite uses visible signs—water, oil, light—and holy words to express the mystery of God’s invisible grace. Through it, we are assured that we belong to God not because of our worthiness, but because of God’s boundless love and mercy.
In the words of St. Paul, we are baptized into one Body with many members. We are made part of a new family—united not by heritage or achievement, but by grace.
Infant and Child Baptism
We joyfully welcome the Baptism of infants and young children. The Episcopal Church understands Baptism as primarily an act of God’s initiative, not our own. Even when a child cannot yet speak the vows for themselves, they can still fully receive the gift of new life in Christ. In these cases, parents and godparents make promises on the child’s behalf, with the expectation that the child will later affirm them in the rite of Confirmation.
Adult Baptism
Adults who have not been previously baptized are warmly invited to explore the Christian faith through prayer, study, and conversation with our clergy. When someone is ready, Baptism marks the beginning of their new life in Christ and their belonging in the Church. Whether you are newly drawn to faith or returning after many years, Baptism opens the door to deep spiritual life and community.
Baptism and the Eucharist
All who are baptized—at any age and from any Christian tradition—are welcome to receive Holy Communion at Incarnation. Baptism is full membership in the Body of Christ, and the Eucharist is our shared meal of thanksgiving, renewal, and presence.
Godparents and Sponsors
Godparents (or sponsors) stand with the candidate for Baptism—especially in the case of children—and make vows to support them in the Christian life. Godparents themselves must be baptized and are chosen for their faith, love, and willingness to walk with the baptized person in their journey with Christ.
Interested in Baptism?
Whether you are considering Baptism for yourself or for a child, we would be honored to speak with you. Please contact one of the clergy to begin a conversation.