After Peter had preached his soul-stirring sermon on the Day of Pentecost, his audience asked: “Brothers, what shall we do?” Peter replied, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven” (Acts 2:37b, 38). Belief and repentance are part of the spiritual preparation necessary before baptism.

Every person who has repented and believed in Christ is ready to be baptized. This is someone who has realized that their sin separated them from God.

What is the purposes of baptism?

As we'll see, Christ not only commands believers to get baptized, baptism is also a gift he graciously gives for our benefit and blessing. Here then are three reasons to get baptized: (1) to obey Christ's command, (2) to publicly profess faith in Christ, and (3) to formally commit yourself to Christ and his people.

The question is often asked, “Does the water wash away our sins when we are baptized?” The Bible certainly speaks of baptism washing away sins; and it would seem that baptism is the means of that washing, as stated in Acts 22:16. However, the passage indicates that the washing away of sin happens as one calls on the name of the Lord. Placing trust in Christ by calling on His name is in agreement with other scriptures which speak of the means of removing guilt.

Baptism symbolizes washing sin away, but the actual removal of sin is accomplished by God forgiving the believing, repentant sinner because of his faith in the death of Christ on the cross for our sins.

The scriptures teach that the blood of Jesus washes away sins, and baptism symbolizes that washing. The removal of sins depended on the death of Christ, for He “freed us from our sins by His blood.”

As soon as you have believed. “Those who believed were baptized that day!” (Acts 2:41). Does this mean it has to be immediately? No, what the Bible is trying to teach is that baptism should follow your decision to become a Believer.

We set aside at least one Sunday per quarter and announce in advance on Facebook, and on our website when the next baptism service will be. But you can also let us know you’re ready now by filling out our form below.

Checklist of things to bring:

T-shirt and shorts (“I Made a Decision” T-shirt will also be provided)

Change of clothes

Large towel (for drying off) We also provide towels.

Flip-flops, sandals or water shoes

Ponytail holder (if you have long hair)

Toiletries or other personal items (for after the baptism)

A small plastic bag or sack for your wet clothes

Since baptism is the public profession of your faith in Christ, it is best if each participant is prepared to either share their story in a 2-minute video of trusting Christ to be their Saviour or to have it read during the baptism service (you can ask anyone you’d like to read your story, or the pastor will read it for you on your behalf).