Baptism at Riverside Baptist Church DC
What is Baptism?
The sacrament of baptism is an outward and visible sign of the grace of God. Through baptism a
person is joined with the universal church, the body of Christ. In baptism, God works in us the
power of forgiveness, the renewal of the spirit, and the knowledge of the call to be God’s people
always.
At Riverside, we believe that Baptism is an outward acknowledgement of one's inner commitment
to transformation that honors the ways and teachings of Jesus. It is a public act that connects you
to a community of people who vow to walk with you on your journey of faith. In the Baptist tradition, you make a profession of faith – a declaration of one's faith journey with Christ and in community.
Baptism is a personal celebration in the lives of the individual candidates and their families. It is
also a celebration within the local church family and a recognition of its commitment. For this
reason, baptism is celebrated in the presence of the community gathered for worship.
How does Baptism take place?
Baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the sign and seal of our common discipleship. Since
baptism is God’s gift, the Holy Spirit is called to be upon the water and those being baptized. The
act of baptism also marks the beginning of new life of discipleship with Christ, the human response to that gift.
Why is water used?
Water is an essential element of baptism. Water is a prominent symbol of cleansing and life in the
Bible—the water of creation, the great flood, the liberation of Israel through the sea, the water of
Mary’s womb, the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan River, the woman at the well, and Jesus’ washing of the feet of the disciples. That is why water is visibly present in the service. Some traditions use sprinkling, some pouring, and some immersion. In most Baptist contexts, immersion is the preferred method. However, we make space for meeting the needs of the person being baptized.
When should a person be baptized?
Baptism may take place at any worship service where the community is gathered. In the early
Christian church, the season of Lent was used as the final period for the preparation of candidates. Baptism can occur at any age. While in many Baptist traditions a profession of faith is required (a verbal acknowledgement), we understand that not all people are able to offer verbal professions and that life circumstances might have us consider other ways of carrying out this very sacred and significant act.
In the scriptures that are read during the seasons from Advent up to Easter, there are many texts
that teach the faith and point toward baptism. In the early church, the candidates were baptized
together at the Vigil of Easter (the pre-dawn Easter service). Some local churches still perform
baptisms at this service, or on Pentecost Sunday, and also baptize throughout the year.
Our Baptism Sundays in 2024 will be September 29 and December 29. If you are interested in baptism, email or