What Is Baptism?

The Bible clearly teaches that baptism is the next step of obedience after making a commitment to Christ. During the act of baptism, the believer communicates to the world their heartfelt commitment to Christ. Believer Baptism is for children 1st grade-5th grade, youth, and adults and at Bay Hope Church this is typically by full immersion. That means you are fully submerged in (heated!) water by the pastor. 

For children who are not yet able to make the decision themselves, we celebrate God's grace already at work in their lives through early childhood baptism. This is done by sprinkling (the pastor puts a small amount of water on the child's head). 

If your elementary aged child has been asking questions about baptism or has expressed an interest in being baptized, please see or email Marianne Donnelly, our Director of Kid’s Ministry about their Next Step before registering them for baptism. mdonnelly@bayhope.com

When your child enters middle school in 6th grade, they will participate in Confirmation and will have the opportunity to be baptized as well as confirmed as a member of the church. We recommend this for all students. For more information on Confirmation, click HERE.

All baptisms are preceeded by a prerequisite baptism class to answer any questions you might have and help you get started on your faith journey. We are thrilled to celebrate with you.