Historically our baptisms have taken place at a local river or pond. This may be a stream close to one of our meeting houses, on the property of one of our members, or even at a park or public location. A minister goes into the water with the individual requesting baptism, and they are asked three questions:
1. Do you believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and that He brought from heaven the saving gospel?
2. Do you willingly renounce Satan and all his pernicious ways and sinful pleasures of this world?
3. Do you covenant in Christ Jesus to live faithful until death?
After the person requesting baptism verbally responds “yes” to each question, the minister baptizes the applicant three times forward in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Immediately following, the minister prays, while laying hands on the head of the individual who has been baptized, and then both come up out of the water. The members of the church, visitors, and children who have been observing then come to the newly baptized member and speak words of encouragement. During this time there is singing as we rejoice together, celebrating that another individual has chosen to turn his back on darkness and walk in light!
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. Acts 2:38″
