Baptism is a sacrament in the United Methodist Church. The Baptismal Covenant is God’s word to us, proclaiming our adoption by grace, and our word to God, promising our response of faith and love. All those within this covenant constitute the community we call the Church; therefore, the services of the Baptismal Covenant are conducted during public worship of the congregation.
United Methodists understand that Holy Baptism incorporates a person into the Body of Christ, the Church. Baptism initiates us into Christ’s whole Church and not only into a denomination. Baptism signifies the entry of the candidate into the general ministry of all Christians. Persons of any age are suitable candidates for baptism. Christ’s body, the Church, is a great family that includes persons of all ages. Infants and children who have not reached the developmental stage of making decisions for themselves are presented by parents and/or sponsors who make the same profession of faith that a candidate would make and who promise to nurture the candidate in their family, and in their faith family, so that they will come to accept God’s grace for themselves, to profess their faith openly, and to lead a Christian life.
We welcome your inquiry about the sacrament of baptism and look forward to assisting your family with planning this special day. It is our desire to make your baptism meaningful. Shavertown United Methodist Church offers baptism at both Saturday evening and Sunday morning worship.
Persons desiring to be baptized should call our pastor and schedule an appointment to discuss baptism and its meaning. Parents desiring to present their children for baptism are also invited to schedule an appointment with our pastor.
