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Christ Church Policy on Baptism
General Intent
Baptism is the sacrament by which we are received into the
Church of Jesus Christ. It may be administered to adults who have received instruction in
the Christian faith and who desire to enter into the life and work, fellowship and mission
of the congregation. It may also be administered to children of believing parents (or
guardians) as a sign that they are born within the fellowship of the Church.
Specific Policy
- The Sacrament of Baptism is an act of worship, and it is expected that it will be
administered during a regular service of worship.
- In the case of children, at least one parent (or guardian) must have been baptized and
confirmed, and be a member of Christ Church.
- Parents (or guardians) desiring baptism for their children are expected to attend a
baptismal discussion with one of the ministers.
Special Circumstances
- Children of parents who are members of a Christian Church in another community, may be
baptized at Christ Church providing that the parents agree to fulfill their obligations at
their own church.
Exceptions
- Exceptions may be made with the consent of the Church Board. In the case of exceptions
to Specific Policy 2., the Church Board should then share with the parents the
responsibility for the Christian upbringing of the child and should seek to bring the
parents into full, active communion with the church.
- The Minister, at his/her sole discretion, may make exceptions to this policy. Such
exceptions, and the reasons for making them, shall be discussed with the Chairperson of
the Worship Committee, and then reported to the Church Board at its next meeting.
Definitions
A sacrament is a formal religious act that is sacred as a
sign or symbol of a spiritual reality. Baptism is one of two sacraments recognized
by the United Church of Canada as being instituted by Christ, the other being the
sacrament of the Lord’s Supper.
A member is a person who is in full membership and whose name
appears on the Roll of Christ Church.
References
- The Manual 2001
, The United Church of Canada
- Christ Church Constitution
, May 2003
Responsibility
The Worship Committee is responsible for keeping this policy up to
date and for recommending changes for the approval of the Church Board.
Approved by Christ Church Board, February 24, 2004
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