What is baptism?

It is one of the ways God gives His grace to us. It is a gift of forgiveness for everyone. Just as parents bathe their children, God cleanses us from sin in the waters of baptism

But when Jesus saw it, He was indignant and said to them, "Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God. Truly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God like a child shall not enter it." And he took them in His arms and blessed them, laying His hands on them.
MARK 10:14-16

Why do we Baptize?

Jesus Christ commands His followers in the last chapter of Matthew: "Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you."
Matthew 28:19-20

How can water do these great things?

It's not just the water, but the Word of God in and with the water. Without God's Word the water is just plain water and not a baptism. But with the Word of God, it is a baptism, that is a life-giving water, rich in grace, and a washing of new birth in the Holy Spirit. Baptism gives us God's gift of forgivenness, salvation, new life and imparts the Holy Spirit and the promise of resurrection.

Who is Baptism for?

Baptism is for everyone. Children are baptized for the same reason as adults: because of the command and promise of God. God promises in baptism to give His gifts to all who receive it; therefore, infants and young children also have the promise of God. They are included in the words "all nations" (Matt. 28:19). Jesus specifically invites little children to come to Him (see Mark 10). Most importantly, infants and children, just like adults need what baptism gives.

FAQ's?

I've already been baptized, should I do it again?
You don't need to be baptized again if you were baptized in the Christian faith in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:5)
What is the difference between a dedication and a baptism?
A dedication is a man made ceremony where parents dedicate their child to the Christian life and dedicate themselves to raising their child as a Christian. While a dedication is a wonderful thing, it is not the same thing as a baptism. Just like a dedication, at a baptism parents, guardians and sponsors vow to raise their child in the Christian faith, but more importantly, in baptism God is working to bring grace, forgiveness and His Spirit.
How does a baptism happen at Risen Savior?
As Lutherans, we believe that the method of baptism is not what makes it effective but God's work through the water and the Word. Generally we use a method called sprinkling or pouring. This happens as a small amount of water is placed upon one's head using the words "in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit."
When can baptism happen?
Generally, baptisms happen as a part of a worship service. That could be as a part of our Sunday morning worship services or even a part of one of our preschool chapel services. There are also times when families have requested a private family baptism and those requests are accommodated whenever possible.
What about sponsors or godparents?
The role of a sponsor or godparent is to pray for the child who is baptized, to live in such a way that they are an example of a godly life for the child, and to speak about Jesus to the child in the years to come. Sponsors are not required, but if you choose sponsors they should be committed Christians who can fulfill these important rolls. 

Please use the form below if you are interested in baptism at Risen Savior.  If you have more questions, please contact the Church Office at info@risensavioraz.org.
baptism form