We believe water baptism by immersion in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit is an outward sign of an inward work and is commanded by God following conversion. (Matt. 28:19; Rom. 6:4; Acts 2:38, 8:12,38)
Jesus established baptism as a sacrament of the Church by both His example as well as by His command. Baptism is an external sign of an internal change. It marks the entrance of a believer into the Church as a member of the body of Christ. There are three symbolic acts seen in water baptism. First there is the symbol of cleansing from sin. Water baptism does not remove sin, but it does show to all that your life has been cleansed from sin by your confession of faith in Jesus Christ. A believer follows Christ in water baptism because they have been forgiven of their sin. This obedient act confesses openly to all that you have been forgiven of your sin and that you now confess Jesus Christ as Lord. Second, water baptism is a symbol of freedom from the consequences of sin. Water baptism is a perfect visualization of death, burial and resurrection. Spiritually it symbolizes that you are dead to sin. Third, water baptism symbolizes new life in Jesus Christ. Through water baptism we are united with Christ in His death and resurrection. (Matt. 3:13, 28:19; Rom. 6:4-7; 1 John 1:9)
Items to bring: shirt and pants, towels, plastic bag.
