Baptism

Steps to Get Baptized

1. Sign Up to Get Baptized

Click on the button below to begin the process of getting baptized. Someone from our office will contact you to follow up.

Get Baptized

2. Prepare your Testimony

Prepare your testimony and meet with a pastor. In 125 words or less, focus on what your life was like before you put your faith in Jesus, how that decision has changed your life, and why you want to be baptized.

3. Get Scheduled and Invite your Family & Friends

Once you've been scheduled for Baptism, invite your family, invite your friends, and share with them the good news of what Jesus as done for you!

What is Water Baptism?

Water baptism is a public declaration that we have turned away from our sins and put our faith in Jesus Christ as our personal Savior and Lord (Acts 2:38). It is important to recognize that baptism does not save us; instead, we are saved by God’s grace as we trust in His Son who died for us on the cross and was raised from the dead (Romans 10:9-10; Ephesians 2:8-10). As we go down into the waters and come back up we demonstrate that our old life of sin has been buried with Christ and we have been raised with Him to new life (Romans 6:1-4.) Baptism is a celebration of God’s grace and an expression of our desire and intention to follow Him!

Why be Baptized?

New Hope encourages all believers in Jesus Christ to be baptized. Jesus was baptized (Mark 1:9-11.) Jesus said that believers should be baptized (Matthew 28:19.) The Apostle Peter also encouraged believers to be baptized (Acts 2:38.) Baptism is an important point of identification with Jesus as your Lord and an expression of your desire and intention to follow Him. Baptism identifies us publicly with Jesus Christ as His followers. This is vital because Jesus Himself said, “If anyone acknowledges me publicly here on earth, I will openly acknowledge that person before my Father in heaven”
(Matthew 10:32.)

Where can I learn more about Baptism?

What should I wear for Baptism?

What is the schedule like on Baptism Day?

What if I was Baptized/Christened as a baby, should I still be Baptized as an adult?

FAQs

Can I have my children Baptized?

Where Can I Learn more about Baptism?

We have a pdf brochure that you can download that contains more information and additional scripture references about baptism.

Download PDF

What Should I Wear for Baptism?

You will want to wear clothing that doesn’t retain a lot of water (i.e. jeans are not a good choice.) Dark-colored pants or modest-length shorts are best. You will be given a black t-shirt to wear during your baptism. Be sure to bring a towel, a change of clothes, and a plastic bag to put your wet clothes in.

What is the Schedule like on Baptism Day?

You’ll want to come to church 30 minutes early to get your t-shirt and instructions. The baptism service is typically about 10-15 minutes into the service, after 2-3 songs. After baptism, you’ll be able to change clothes and rejoin your family for the rest of the service. Your family and friends are invited to join you for a reception after service with cake and refreshments in room 101.

Can I have My Children Baptized?

New Hope follows the practice of “believer baptism” by immersion. In order to be baptized, children must be of an age and maturity to make an informed decision to repent from sin, receive forgiveness, and follow Christ. They must choose this for themselves. For parents wishing to acknowledge God’s call on their children and to demonstrate their commitment to raising their children in the fear and admonition of the Lord, we offer child dedication. If you would like more info about child/parent dedication, click here (link to the dedication page.)

What if I was Baptized/Christened as a Baby, Should I Still be Baptized as an Adult?

Some churches have a tradition of baptizing or christening infants of believing parents. They do so as a sign of God’s covenantal love and grace for believers and their children. While we acknowledge God’s covenant faithfulness to the families of believers, we believe the clearest teaching of scripture to be that the sign of baptism is reserved for those who profess Christ and who make that choice, of their own free will, to be baptized.