At FBC Geraldine, we celebrate baptism as a profound step of obedience and public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. Baptism symbolizes the believer's death to sin and new life in Christ, a beautiful outward expression of an inward transformation brought about by the Holy Spirit.
What We Believe
We practice Believer's Baptism by immersion, following a personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ. This act of faith is in direct obedience to Jesus' command, reflecting the believer's identification with Christ's death, burial, and resurrection.
How to Get Started
Interested in baptism? We're here to guide you through each step:
Expression of Interest: Reach out to a church leader or directly email Pastor Will at will@fbcgeraldine.org.
Meeting with the Pastor: You'll have a personal meeting to discuss your desire for baptism and your faith journey.
Understanding and Articulation: It's important that you can clearly articulate your faith and the gospel, understanding the significance of baptism.
Corporate Worship Baptism: Agree to be baptized during our Sunday morning worship service, as a public declaration of your faith.
Church Membership: Baptism at FBC Geraldine also signifies becoming a member of our church family, joining us in our mission to live out the gospel.
Meeting with the Pastor: You'll have a personal meeting to discuss your desire for baptism and your faith journey.
Understanding and Articulation: It's important that you can clearly articulate your faith and the gospel, understanding the significance of baptism.
Corporate Worship Baptism: Agree to be baptized during our Sunday morning worship service, as a public declaration of your faith.
Church Membership: Baptism at FBC Geraldine also signifies becoming a member of our church family, joining us in our mission to live out the gospel.
After Your Baptism
Being baptized at FBC Geraldine is more than a personal declaration; it's an induction into our church family. As you begin this new chapter, we invite you to engage with our community, grow in your faith, and serve alongside us in our collective mission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Baptism
Do I need to be rebaptized to rededicate my life to Christ?
No, rebaptism is not necessary for rededication. Baptism is a one-time act of obedience and public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. If you are looking to rededicate your life to Christ, we encourage other steps of faith renewal and commitment, such as joining a repentance of sin, serving in the church, or participating in regular spiritual disciplines and discipleship.
If I was baptized as an infant, do I need to be immersed to join FBC Geraldine?
Yes. At FBC Geraldine, we practice Believer's Baptism by immersion, which requires a personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ. We do not view infant baptism as a valid expression of Christian baptism since it precedes personal decision and faith. Therefore, individuals baptized as infants are encouraged to undergo believer's baptism upon their profession of faith to join FBC Geraldine.
What should I wear for my baptism?
We recommend wearing modest, comfortable clothing that does not become transparent when wet. Dark-colored shorts and a shirt are typical. We will also provide a baptismal robe upon request. Additionally, bring a change of clothes and a towel for after your baptism.
How old do you have to be to get baptized?
There is no set age requirement for baptism at FBC Geraldine. The key requirement is the ability to personally profess faith in Jesus Christ and understand the significance of baptism. We encourage parents to discuss baptism with their children to ensure they are making an informed and heartfelt decision. FBCG will not baptize children we cannot confidently say understand the gospel and the ordinance of baptism.
No, rebaptism is not necessary for rededication. Baptism is a one-time act of obedience and public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ. If you are looking to rededicate your life to Christ, we encourage other steps of faith renewal and commitment, such as joining a repentance of sin, serving in the church, or participating in regular spiritual disciplines and discipleship.
If I was baptized as an infant, do I need to be immersed to join FBC Geraldine?
Yes. At FBC Geraldine, we practice Believer's Baptism by immersion, which requires a personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ. We do not view infant baptism as a valid expression of Christian baptism since it precedes personal decision and faith. Therefore, individuals baptized as infants are encouraged to undergo believer's baptism upon their profession of faith to join FBC Geraldine.
What should I wear for my baptism?
We recommend wearing modest, comfortable clothing that does not become transparent when wet. Dark-colored shorts and a shirt are typical. We will also provide a baptismal robe upon request. Additionally, bring a change of clothes and a towel for after your baptism.
How old do you have to be to get baptized?
There is no set age requirement for baptism at FBC Geraldine. The key requirement is the ability to personally profess faith in Jesus Christ and understand the significance of baptism. We encourage parents to discuss baptism with their children to ensure they are making an informed and heartfelt decision. FBCG will not baptize children we cannot confidently say understand the gospel and the ordinance of baptism.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you have any questions about baptism or are ready to take this significant step in your faith journey, please don't hesitate to contact Pastor Will at will@fbcgeraldine.org or reach out to our general information at info@fbcgeraldine.org.