The Sacrament of Holy Baptism at St. Paul

“Baptism is not just plain water, but it is the water included in God’s command and combined with God’s word. It works forgiveness of sins, rescues from death and the devil, and gives eternal salvation to all who believe this, as the words and promises of God declare.” -Luther’s Small Catechism

If you are interested in being baptized or having your child baptized at St. Paul, please schedule a meeting with the pastor by calling the church office at (563) 556-7636. The pastor will meet with candidates (or families) to cover the Church’s teaching about baptism and to schedule a date.

Some Baptism Questions Answered

Who may be baptized?

People of any age, including infants and adults may be baptized. Baptism is a Means of Grace. It is not something we do for God but something God does for us. Through baptism, God saves us (1 Peter 3:21) from sin, death, and the devil. In baptism, we also receive the Holy Spirit (Titus 3:5) and are adopted as sons and daughters of God. Since we are all sinful from birth and in need of the gifts God promises in baptism, Christian parents are encouraged to have their children baptized as soon as possible.

Who may serve as godparents or sponsors?

To serve as a godparent (also called a sponsor), one should

1. Be a confirmed member of a Lutheran Church – Missouri Synod congregation.
2. Be active through regular attendance in their congregation.
3. Be able and willing to support the parents in the spiritual care of their child.

If these conditions are not met, any baptized Christian may still serve as an “honorary godparent” while suitable sponsors from the congregation will also be chosen to ensure that children continue in spiritual nurture and growth after baptism.

What is required for baptism?

Baptism is God’s free gift to us. There are no fees associated with receiving the sacrament. Adult candidates will undergo a period of instruction prior to baptism. Infants can be baptized as soon as possible. Parents are strongly encouraged to begin attending services at St. Paul regularly (if not already doing so) prior to and following the baptism of their children. Baptism is the beginning of the life of faith in your child, not an end in itself.