Baptism

A sacrament is a holy act—a ritual of our faith. The United Church of Canada has two sacraments: baptism and communion. These are of central importance to our faith.

Baptism is a symbolic action that signifies the new life God gives us as we join the church community. Baptism uses water as a symbolic cleansing that signifies the acceptance of new life within the church family. The sacrament of baptism is the single rite of initiation into the Christian community, the church.

The United Church offers baptism to all ages. We believe the gift of God’s love doesn’t depend on our ability to understand it, so we baptize people as infants right up through adulthood. Baptism is not a requirement for God’s love. We believe people who die without baptism are in no way condemned, lost, or damned.

Baptism in the United Church is recognized by all denominations of the Christian church that practise infant baptism. Similarly, if people have already been baptized in another church, the United Church recognizes their baptism and welcomes them as Christians.

Baptism at Applewood United Church

At Applewood we celebrate the Sacrament of Baptism at several specially designated services throughout the year, during our Sunday Worship Service at 10:30 a.m.

During the service the parents or adult candidates for baptism and the entire congregation make a profession of faith. The Applewood congregation also expresses its commitment to support you and your family in your faith journey.

Preparation for Baptism.

Arrangements for Baptism include contacting and meeting with our minister to discuss your intent and for instruction.

Baptism Sunday

The Sunday morning of the service, participants are asked to arrive no later than 10:10 a.m. and seat themselves in the pews closest to the front of the Sanctuary. Please suggest to your friends and other family members they arrive early to secure optimal seating.

Sunday School children leave for their classes. Your older children and those of your guests are most welcome to join them.

You and your guests are invited to take posed photographs in the Sanctuary immediately following the ceremony as a remembrance of this special occasion for your family. Please do not take photographs during the worship service itself.

For your guests

A room located behind the organ is a quiet room. This can be used by you or your guests should it be necessary to comfort or settle a fussy child during the service. A large glass window allows worshippers to watch and hear the service.

Coffee Hour

Finally, please have your family and friends join our congregation in the Ann Graham Community Hall following the service for a time of refreshment and community.