What is the meaning of Baptism?

Baptism is an important symbol of the new life that is created when someone becomes a follower of Jesus. It helps you to identify with Christ's death, burial and resurrection. (1 Corinthians 15:3-4) (Colossians 2:12)

It also defines my new life as a Christian. (2 Corinthians 5:17) (Romans 6:4)

Baptism doesn't make you a believer - it shows that you already believe. Baptism does not however "save" you, only Jesus does that. Baptism is an act of obedience, representing a crossing over from an old way of life to becoming a new creation. 

Who should be baptized?

Every person who believes in Christ should be baptized. (Acts 2:41) (Acts 8:13) (Acts 8:12)

When Should I be baptized?

You should be baptized as soon as you believe. (Acts 2:41) (Acts 8:35-38). There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have decided to receive Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are "perfect", you'll never feel "good enough"!

When should children be baptized?

At FCC, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them. Some churches practice a "baptism of confirmation" for children. This ceremony is intended to be a covenant between the parents and God on behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his or her own personal confession of Christ. This custom began about 300 years after the Bible was complete. This is different from the baptism talked about in the Bible which was only for those old enough to believe on their own. The purpose is to publicly confess your personal commitment to Christ and to identify with Him in his death, burial and resurrection.

Why does FCC baptize by immersion?

We baptize by immersion because Jesus was baptized that way (Matthew 3:16). Every baptism in the Bible was by immersion (Acts 8:38-39) and the Greek word "baptize" means "to immerse or dip under water".

What will my baptism be like?

We will beforehand show you the baptismal and the process undertaken during the service. During the service after an agreed-upon day, you will be guided by the pastor to come forward and repeat this phrase, " I believe, that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and I accept Him as my Lord and Savior." After that you will be directed to the changing room to prepare for baptism. When ready, then Pastor will lead you into the water, introduce you, briefly lower you just under the water and raise you up about the water, and then you can leave the water, dry off and return to the changing room. Later you will receive your baptism certificate. We encourage you to invite all your relative and friends to attend your baptism. 

What should I wear?

Women should wear shorts and a top or a swimsuit. Men may wear shorts, t-shirts or a swimsuit. Bring a change of clothes, a towel, and a plastic bag for your wet clothes. We will cover whatever you wear with a white baptismal robe.

Can my family and friends be baptized together?

Yes! If each person understands fully the meaning of baptism, and each one has personally placed his/her trust in Christ for salvation, we encourage families to be baptized at the same time. It is a wonderful expression of commitment. However, it is important to remember that baptism is a personal statement of faith, not a family or group tradition. It is usually not wise to delay your baptism while waiting on others to join you. This puts undue pressure on them, and delays your obedience. 

Is Baptism You Next Step?

Contact Senior Pastor Leonard Moore if you are interested.