What happens in baptism?
In baptism, God meets us with a promise: you are my beloved child. Through water and the Holy Spirit, we are joined to Christ, welcomed into God’s family, and blessed for a life of faith. Baptism isn’t a single moment, it’s the beginning of a lifelong journey with God.
Our baptism shapes how we live every day—how we pray, worship, serve, love our neighbor, and trust God’s grace. It reminds us that no matter where life takes us, God’s Spirit goes with us, too.
Baptism at any age
Most people in the ELCA are baptized as infants, but baptism is open to all people at any age. Some are baptized as teens as part of their confirmation journey. Others come to baptism as adults, drawn by God’s call and the desire to follow Jesus. Whenever baptism happens, God’s promise is the same, and God’s welcome is full.
Parents, godparents, and sponsors
When a child is baptized, parents and godparents gather at the font and make holy promises to raise this child in faith and to walk with them as they grow. Godparents serve as companions and encouragers in the child’s life of faith.
When an adult is baptized, sponsors take on a similar role, offering support, prayer, and encouragement as they grow in discipleship.
Baptism in worship
Baptism typically occurs during worship because it is the whole church (not just a family) who welcomes the newly baptized into the body of Christ. We promise together to support one another in faith and to live out the gospel side by side.
Baptism in special circumstances
When illness or an emergency prevents a baptism in church, it can take place at home or in a hospital.
Interested in baptism?
If you or your child would like to be baptized at the Lutheran Church of Our Savior, your first step is simply to reach out to the pastor. Adults preparing for baptism are invited into a time of learning and reflection. For children, parents meet with the pastor to talk about the service and what baptism means for their family.
Whenever baptism happens, the church rejoices because every baptism is a celebration of God’s love made real among us.