Baptism as a Believer

Baptism is the public declaration that a person has become a Christian.  Baptism is more something done to you than something you do.  God declares in your baptism that you are accepted into the family of God, cleansed from sin, made alive by the Holy Spirit.  At College Church, we baptize by one of three modes--immersion, sprinkling or pouring.  You select the mode.  A one-hour class is offered twice a year for those wishing to be baptized.  These three modes are explained in detail.  Prior to the baptismal service, each person who is baptized writes a brief story of coming to faith, and selects a friend or family member who was influential in the faith process to read their testimony.

For more information, contact the church office.

Common Questions About Baptism

• What if I was baptized as a child?  While you do not need to be baptized again, we believe it is important for you to confess your faith in Christ.  this allows the church to celebrate what began in your baptism as an infant.  We ask you to write out your testimony and have it read by someone who was influential in your conversion.  This is done in the baptismal service and you are reminded to "remember your baptism and be thankful."
• How old should a child be before baptism?  If a child was not baptized as an infant, we encourage you to wait until the child is in the fifth grade.  We take our children through a study of Christian faith during this year of their lives.  This prepares them for baptism and church membership.  We recognize that this class does not assure salvation, but it does give us opportunity to talk with our children about knowing God.  Parents are welcome to attend, and are given materials to use at home to enhance the learning of their child. 
• What if I was baptized as a believer and strayed from God?  Do I need to be re-baptized?  No.  God simply calls you to repent and come home.  There is no such thing as re-baptism.
• What if I was baptized in another church/denomination?  We celebrate your baptism by that church.  We do not require "Nazarene" baptism, only Christian baptism.  In our eyes, you have been baptized.

Infant baptism/dedication information