Baptism
The Bible teaches that baptism is the immersion in water of a person who has placed their faith in Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. If you would like to experience the tremendous joy of obedience to Christ's command, you are invited to contact us to talk about this important step in your spiritual journey.
For Parents: If your child is younger than 13 and has expressed a desire to be baptized, please contact Pastor Josh Mulvihill (jmulvihill@atgrace.com or 952-224-3077) to begin the process.
Click to download the ‘Preparing Your Child for Baptism’ booklet.
The sections below help provide a biblical understanding and answer many questions about baptism. For more information, please contact Jessica at 952-224-3031 or jchristensen@atgrace.com.
Ready to be baptized?
Click here for instructions on getting baptized at Grace Church.
Frequently Asked Questions About Baptism
Is baptism necessary for salvation?
Baptism does not make you a follower of Jesus Christ nor does it guarantee your eternal destiny. Baptism is like a wedding ring--it is the outward symbol of an inward commitment you have made in your heart.
What about infant baptism?
In the New Testament faith always preceded baptism. Since a baby has no ability to make a decision to place his/her faith in Christ, infant baptism is not a biblical mandate. The Bible teaches that children who are unable to comprehend the Gospel would go to heaven because of God's love and grace, not on the basis of a religious ritual like baptism.
Since the purpose of baptism is to publicly profess your personal commitment to Christ, it is best if a child is mature enough to place his/her faith in Christ and understand the true meaning of baptism. For parents with infants and young children, we provide a special worship service time when parents may dedicate their children to God. This dedication is a covenant by the parents to raise their child in the ways of the Lord until the child is old enough to make his or her own personal commitment. You may contact the Children's Ministries office at 952-224-3026 to make arrangements for child dedication. You may also wish to read a booklet our children's pastor has written titled "Preparing Your Child for Baptism."
Do I need to be baptized a second time?
It is recommended that you be baptized again if you have never been baptized by immersion since you became a follower of Jesus Christ. If you were baptized as an infant, believer's baptism doesn't devalue your prior experience but simply reflects your desire to be obedient to God's Word and Christ's example. If you were baptized into a cult or non-Christian religion, it is also recommended that you be baptized again.
Can I choose who will baptize me?
Grace Church elders, pastors or staff may officiate at your baptism. Their participation is based on their availability.
Can I choose where I want to be baptized?
Yes! Grace Church baptisms are held in the Worship Center during worship services, at a lake during the summer, or at a special gathering (e.g. retreats, camps, etc.).
Can my family be baptized together?
Yes! If each family member has placed his/her faith in Christ for salvation and understands fully the meaning of baptism, we encourage you to be baptized as a family.
Will someone help me with my testimony?
Absolutely! We will provide all the help you need or want in preparing your faith story.