Persons of any age are suitable for baptism. Infants or others unable to take the vows for themselves are presented by parents and/or sponsors.
We encourage the baptism of infants and children. From the earliest times, children and infants were baptized and included in the church. As scriptural authority for this ancient tradition, some scholars cite Jesus’ words, “Let the little children come to me…for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs” (Mark 10:14). Baptism as a means of grace signifying God’s initiative in the process of salvation.
John Wesley preached “prevenient grace,” the grace that works in our lives before we are aware of it, bringing us to faith. The baptism of children and their inclusion in the church before they can respond with their own confirmation of faith is a vivid and compelling witness to prevenient grace.
Those baptized before they are old enough to take the vows for themselves make their personal profession of faith in the service called confirmation.
If you were baptized in a different Christian faith, we recognize and honor your baptism as real and effective. Therefore there is no need for rebaptism if you have chosen to become a Methodist Christian.
During every worship service we take time to remember our baptism.
