Baptism Services
Baptism at Wayfarers Chapel
“I solemnly assure you, no one can enter into God’s kingdom without being begotten of water and Spirit. That which is born of the flesh is flesh, and that which is born of the Spirit is Spirit. Do not marvel that I tell you all must be begotten from above. The wind blows where it wishes, and you hear the sound of it, but cannot tell where it comes from and where it goes. So is everyone who is born of the Spirit.”
Gospel of John, Chapter 3
The Holy Sacrament of Baptism
Wayfarers Chapel is a beautiful and sacred location to celebrate the Holy Sacrament of Baptism. Your baptism is performed by one of the Ordained Chapel Ministers in a private service apart from our Sunday Worship Service. You will have the opportunity to meet with a Chapel Minister for a theological discussion and planning the service. We consider baptism an important step in the spiritual journey of life.
It is not necessary to be a member of the Chapel or its sponsoring denomination the Swedenborgian Church in order to be baptized here. Therefore at Wayfarers Chapel we do not baptize into the Swedenborgian Church but into the Lord’s church on earth, the church in that broad ecumenical concept of it.
Baptism of Children
The joy of having a child welcomed into your family is a wondrous event. The happiness that you experience in becoming parents of a new life in the world is so exciting. We appreciate that you recognize the value of baptism of your child and we are pleased to be of assistance to you in this endeavor. There are two commitments requested of the parents. They include your choice to raise your child as a Christian and your obligation to provide ongoing love, support and wise guidance to your child.
Godparents are not necessary. If you choose to have Godparents, they need not be those whom you would choose to have as legal guardians. Further discussion of the service and any theological questions you may have will be addressed in your conference with the Chapel Minister performing the ceremony. Should you have a question that you feel needs to be answered before that time please feel free to contact one of the Chapel Ministers.
Adult Baptism
As an adult choosing to participate in the Sacrament of Baptism, you are making a conscious choice to follow the model of Jesus’ life and teachings. How you see his path and the commitment you are making to follow him is a matter we leave to your own conscience and understanding. To support the spiritual journey of individuals is the purpose of not only Wayfarers Chapel but also the entire Swedenborgian denomination. We rejoice with you that you have come to this important turning point in your life.
Jesus taught us by thought, word and deed what his followers would be challenged to emulate. Baptism at its most meaningful is a deep spiritual commitment to answer this challenge in your everyday life. We congratulate you for considering this important and joyful step on your spiritual journey. A Chapel Minister will meet with you to answer your questions and aid in your preparations.
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