Baptism

The sacrament of Baptism allow us to follow the tradition of our Lord as he was baptized in the Jordan River by John the Baptist. It is a “new Birth by water and the Holy Spirit” into the Kingdom of God. John3:5.

It is recommended that children be baptized at the earliest possible age. The selection of the Godparents should be made with care. As the name implies they will be the parents who have the secondary (and if need be the primary) responsibility of the spiritual needs of the child. And since the Godparents will be speaking on behalf of the child, they must be members in good standing in the Holy Orthodox Church.

During the sacrament of Baptism the baby receives the gift of the Holy Spirit (Chrismation) as well as First Communion.

Baptisms should be scheduled with the pastor as early as possible. In addition to properly selecting the Godparents, select a name of a saint to be used as that child’s middle name. Also please bring to the church 2 large white towels (child is totally immersed), new white outfit for the child (born again in purity), and a cross (“..must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me”) and 2 large white candles.

For the three Sundays following the baptism, it is traditional for the Godparent to bring the child to receive communion.