How to Perform a Baptismal Service

Christians celebrate baptism as a ritual that either symbolizes the removal of sin or washes away actual sins. Babies and infants usually are the recipients of a baptism, but adults entering the faith also go through the event. Certain churches only will conduct a baptism when the recipient reaches an age that allows the individual to understand the significance of the event and to make a profession of faith. A person can be baptized through immersion in water or by having water sprinkled or poured over the top of his head. Certain churches insist that baptisms be performed by clergy, while others allow lay persons to do it.

Prepare the baptismal candidate. Explain the significance of baptism according to your church's beliefs. Make sure the candidate qualifies for baptism according to your church's teachings.

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Invite the entire congregation, as well as friends and family to the baptism service. Schedule the baptismal service at a time when the candidates' loved ones will be able to attend or during an actual church service.

Prepare the baptismal area. Fill the baptismal tank with water, if applicable. Locate a natural water source If you are performing an outdoor baptism.

Introduce the baptismal candidate to the congregation. Speak loudly and clearly so those who do not know the candidate can hear her name.

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Explain the meaning of Christian baptism. Read and briefly explain Matthew 28:19-20, Acts 2:38, Romans 6:3-6, Galatians 3:27, 1 Peter 3:21, or another appropriate Scripture passage pertaining to baptism.

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Interview the baptismal candidate or ask him to give a brief testimony. Ask something like, "Have you repented of your sin and accepted Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior?" Tailor the question to meet your church's understanding of the qualifications for baptism. Instruct the candidate on how to respond to your questions, such as replying "I do."

Instruct the baptismal candidate to plug her nose. Have the candidate plug her nose with one hand and grasp the wrist of that arm with her other hand. Give these instructions quietly to the baptismal candidate.

Position yourself beside and behind the candidate so that the congregation can see the candidate. Place one of your hands on the candidate's upper back and hold the candidate's forearm with your other hand. Widen your stance for balance.

Immerse the candidate backward into the water slowly, making sure to support him or her. Make your church's baptismal pronunciation as you immerse the candidate. Say something like, "I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost," or "I baptize you in the name of Jesus." Bring the newly baptized person up out of the water.

Alternatively, pour or sprinkle water over the top of the candidate's head. Have the candidate bend her neck back so her head is situated over a container that will catch the water. Have the candidate sit in a chair or be supported on either side by family or church members. Make your church's baptismal pronunciation as you pour or sprinkle water on the candidate.

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Present the baptized person to the congregation and encourage them to welcome her into their fellowship. Read another Scripture verse and have a moment of prayer for the newly baptized person.

Provide the baptized person with towels and a place to change into dry clothes if she was immersed.