Holy Baptism

Holy Baptism is the high point of our worship and our life together.  In the mystery of Holy Baptism, we believe that we die with Christ to sin and death, and we rise again to freedom and life eternal.  When we baptize infants, it is the parents and godparents who make promises on behalf of the child.  When we baptize adults, the adult herself or himself renounces evil, affirms faith in Jesus Christ, and joins in promising to uphold the faith of the Church. 

Holy Baptism at Saint Timothy’s is a very special time and takes place within a public service of worship. At its core, baptism is about initiation into the life of the Christian community and, therefore, private baptisms are not conducted. In past generations, baptism was a broad cultural expectation for infants. This is no longer the case. The Church understands baptism as the beginning of a commitment to the Christian faith and life, which includes ongoing formation and an expectation of continued communal worship.

In baptism, Holy Water is poured over the head of the person being baptized.  Then they are anointed with Holy Oil as the presence of the Holy Spirit is invoked and claimed for this new Christian.  Finally, a candle is given to the newly baptized, symbolizing that this person now shares in carrying the Light of Christ into the world. White is traditionally worn at baptisms, symbolizing forgiveness of sin and the hope of life eternal with the saints in heaven. 

We baptize at the following major feasts: 

  • The Feast of the Baptism of Our Lord Jesus Christ

  • The Great Vigil of Easter

  • The Day of Pentecost

  • All Saint’s Sunday

Click here for a further explanation from The Episcopal Church.

To begin the process toward baptism, please contact our priest, The Rev. Roger Greene.
Once a date is set, you will be asked to complete the Baptismal Information Form.