Baptize: A baptism is a moment of marking and a moment of welcoming. God marks an individual whom God has created with an invisible mark of love and acceptance. The church welcomes that person whom God loves as part of the church family and the body of Christ. When we respond to the call of Jesus and profess our faith, we are immersed in the waters of baptism. And, whether that is done literally—by being submerged and brought up—or symbolically—by water being placed on the head in some fashion—the action of baptism is the same and is carried out in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. God claims us as God’s own in the waters of baptism. The Baptize unit picks up where the baptismal event leaves off. Baptized persons live into their identity as children of God through daily acts of discipleship on a lifelong journey of growing in faith. Congregational Guide provides materials for the pastor, educator, and church leaders to connect the practice with congregational worship and life.
