Celebrate New Beginnings with Baptism
Baptism
Experience the joy of baptism in a welcoming and inclusive environment.
Discover how you can become part of our faith community.
All ages are welcome
Whether you are a parent with a new baby, or an adult ready to take the next step in your faith journey, we welcome you to baptism. In our tradition, baptism can happen at any age in a person’s life.
Through baptism, the baptized person is proclaimed as a member of the body of Christ, the Christian church. We would love to welcome you into this community of faith.
What is baptism?
A gift of God’s grace and love.
A welcome into the Christian church, the Body of Christ, the Christian family.
A commitment to the lifelong journey of faith.
A shared and mutual faith journey with children, youth, and adults, faith communities and God.
A relationship with God and God’s creation.
A celebration of God’s gift of love already present for everyone.
A celebration of each wondrous, unique life.
An invitation to discipleship.
A visible sign of God’s invisible grace; a sacrament.
Step 1: Initial Inquiry
Start by completing and submitting the baptism request form, below.
Step 2: Meet with the minister
Within a week of submitting the form, our friendly staff will be in touch to confirm the baptism date, provide you with all the necessary information and answer any questions you may have. We will then set one date for you to attend a worship service, and a second date to meet with Rev. Maya Landell.
Step 3: Get ready for the special day
On your celebratory day of baptism, invite friends and family to join you. We will have a special space set aside for them, and we encourage all to arrive early.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is baptism?
A gift of God’s grace and love. A welcome into the Christian church, the Body of Christ, the Christian family. A commitment to the lifelong journey of faith. A shared and mutual faith journey with children, youth, and adults, faith communities and God. A relationship with God and God’s creation. A celebration of God’s gift of love already present for everyone. A celebration of each wondrous, unique life. An invitation to discipleship. A visible sign of God’s invisible grace; a sacrament.
What does it mean for participants?
All who make the promises of baptism, such as parents and congregation, renew their commitment to God’s love and its expression in their lives. The person being baptized and all those making baptismal promises become a community, together in relationship with God, through the gift of Jesus Christ. In this community, all members are valued and contribute to the whole.
Is baptism recognized in other churches?
Baptism in the United Church is recognized by all denominations of the Christian church that practice infant baptism. Similarly, for people already baptized in another church, the United Church recognizes their baptism and welcomes them as Christians. We offer the Sacrament of Baptism approximately once a month on pre-set dates. You do not need to be a member of our congregation to be baptized, or have your child baptized, at our church.
Can we choose the date and time for the baptism?
Yes, you can discuss available dates and times with our staff to find a schedule that works for your family.
Is there a fee for the baptism service?
There is no fee for the baptism service, but donations are appreciated to support our community programs.
Do we need to be members of the church to have a baptism here?
No, you do not need to be members. We welcome all individuals and families who wish to have a baptism at Islington United Church.
Can we invite family and friends to the baptism?
Absolutely! We encourage you to invite family and friends to celebrate this special occasion with you.