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THE COVENANT OF BAPTISM

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There is no greater joy in the church than the celebration of Baptism. Baptism celebrates God's initiative and our response. It is God's "Yes" to us, and our "Yes" to God. It is a sign of the Divine-human covenant. Baptism flows from God's unmerited grace and pours out in lives of gratitude and commitment. As initiation into the church, the Body of Christ, it is an act of welcoming, blessing, and belonging.

Our Baptism identity is both individual and communal. Baptism honours the divinity of individuals and challenges us to be a community of equals. Baptism does not need to be repeated. However, it is appropriate, both for individuals and congregations, to renew the faith expressed in baptismal covenant from time to time. Baptism for infants and young children proclaim the unconditional grace and love of God. It is also a reminder of the wonder, blessing, and new responsibility that comes with a new life. In the case of adults, baptism is a moving witness to the work of the Spirit in individual and corporate commitment. It is also a celebration of the promise of new life and growth in faith." (Celebrating God's Presence - A Book of Services)

The Session and congregation of First United Church, Corner Brook, takes the responsibilities accepted in Baptism very seriously. Persons coming for Baptism or bringing children for Baptism well be expected to take vows reflecting the following core elements:

  1. profession of faith in the true God;
  2. commitment to seek justice and resist evil
  3. commitment to follow the way the way of Jesus Christ
  4. Commitment to the mission and ministry of the church.                                  

During the Sacrament of Baptism a special candle is lit that symbolizes the presence of the Holy Spirit during celebration. Water is poured visually and audibly at the appropriate time water is sprinkled or poured upon the candidates head in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. Oil is then used to mark a sign of the Cross on the head of the one being Baptized, marking him/her as being Christ's forever. The candidate is then taken around the church sanctuary to be fully introduced as our newest member. The special candle and Certificate of Baptism is then presented to the candidate or his/her parent.

All Baptisms must be registered in the Church Register and with the Provincial Government.

Parents seeking Baptism for their children or adults seeking Baptism for the first time will be asked to give the information outlined in the form found here.