The Sacrament of Baptism
The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 32–54; Book of Discipline, ¶340.1
Baptism is one of two sacraments recognized by The United Methodist Church (the other being Holy Communion). United Methodists practice baptism by sprinkling, pouring, or immersion — all are equally valid. We also baptize infants and young children, affirming that God's grace is at work in their lives before they can respond for themselves.
Baptism is not merely a personal decision but an act of the whole community of faith. The congregation pledges to nurture the baptized person in the Christian life.
The Meaning of Baptism
Through the Sacrament of Baptism we are initiated into Christ's holy Church. We are incorporated into God's mighty acts of salvation and given new birth through water and the Spirit. All this is God's gift, offered to us without price.
The Baptismal Covenant
In baptism, we are called to renounce the spiritual forces of wickedness, reject the evil powers of this world, repent of our sin, accept the freedom and power God gives us to resist evil, injustice, and oppression, and confess Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.
Infant Baptism
Because we believe God's grace is available to all — including those too young to profess faith for themselves — we practice infant baptism. Parents and the congregation make promises on behalf of the child, and the church commits to nurturing the child in the faith until they are able to claim the baptismal covenant as their own through confirmation.
Source: The United Methodist Hymnal, pp. 32–54; Book of Discipline, ¶340.1
Related Documents
The Sacrament of Holy Communion
Membership Vows
The Wesleyan Concept of Grace
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