Holy Baptism

Bulletin Cover for April 14, 2013

Dear Friends,

The celebration of Holy Baptism is an important part of our life together at First UMC of Brighton. In the act of baptism, infants, children and adults are incorporated into the church which is the body of Christ. According to Paul in 1 Corinthians 12:13, to be baptized is to be made one with Christ. The Holy Spirit is powerfully present and we believe that God’s people are united in community through baptism.

“The Baptismal Covenant is God’s word to us, proclaiming our adoption by grace, and our word to God, promising our response of faith and love. . . .Baptism is an act that looks back with gratitude on what God’s grace has already accomplished, it is here and now an act of God’s grace, and it looks forward to what God’s grace will accomplish in the future. . . . Baptism anticipates a lifetime of further and deeper experiences of God, further acts of Christian commitment, and ministries in the world.” (United Methodist Book of Worship)

We believe that people of all ages may be baptized because Christ’s body, the church, includes people of all ages. Peter preached, “Repent, and be baptized every one of you in name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is for you and for your children.” (Acts 2:38-39).

If you are baptized, this is a day to remember your baptism and be thankful. If you have not been baptized and feel moved to profess your faith and celebrate that grace of God in your life, please talk with Pastor Sherry, Pastor John or Deacon Loretta.

God’s Blessings,

Pastor Sherry