Baptism
Baptism
In First Larne we are serious about baptism! Baptism is a serious celebration and a serious commitment.
If you are considering baptism it is probably because you have a new baby born into your family. The birth of a baby and the preservation of a mother’s life warrants a serious celebration. At baptism we principally celebrate God’s love focused upon the child and all that grace-filled offer means.
Baptism is also an opportunity to make serious commitments before God and His people in the congregation. In our celebration of the sacrament of infant baptism these solemn commitments are not only made by parents but also by family and the wider congregation. We all commit to do all in our power, with God’s help, to provide all the child will need to reach his or her full God-given potential. This includes all that is provided at home to nurture the child physically, intellectually and spiritually. It also includes everything that is provided by the church for the child’s physical and spiritual well-being, including crèche, Promiseland, and the range of youth organisations and opportunities that are available.
Parents who wish to have their children baptised are invited to explore these commitments with the Rev. McClure. Typically that conversation will involve informally unpacking the spiritual implications and the practical outworking of the promises made in the baptismal service. The Rev. McClure is keen that all parents completely understand the commitments and can, with integrity, proceed to fulfil the promises.
Baptism is for parents who want their children to join with them on a fulfilling journey lived under God’s blessing and in God’s way. It is not for parents who are already perfect!
Whilst baptism is most often infant baptism people of all ages can be baptised.
For more information please contact Rev. McClure