God, who is rich in mercy and love, gives us a new birth into a living hope through the sacrament of baptism.

The process for baptizing children in the Lutheran church is quite straight-forward. When baptizing children, parents are called to speak on their behalf. They are called to make a commitment to their child and promise that they will raise them up in faith and in prayer throughout their life.

There will also be some people there who promise to help you do that. Baptismal sponsors, often called godparents, are chosen by parents to be in special relationship with children as they grow in their Christian identity.

Then the gathered congregation that day will promise to support all parents and families in the same way. And all the while we remember and celebrate what God is doing in and through our lives. It’s a powerful moment! 

This is all done as a community – baptism is not done in a vacuum. Because of the promises that are made that day, it works well for families to be active participants in the life of a faith community, a congregation, a church home. Our community responds to its promises by becoming an active participant in the life of the family. We do this by supporting Sunday School classes for children, creating learning opportunities for adults, and continuing together in worship, service, prayer, and support in good times and in bad.

That sounds great! What’s next?

If you have not yet had a family member baptized at Good Shepherd, engage in a Baptismal Seminar with one of the pastors and Andrew Buck, the Director of Cross-Generational Ministry. Seminars typically last about an hour and are a great opportunity to learn about, or renew your understanding of, Lutheran beliefs around baptism. We'll also share with you the many ways Good Shepherd commits to walking alongside families as they live out the promises made at baptism. 

If you aren’t a member of a church community yet, it is customary for families to become engaged in the life of a congregation as members before bringing young ones forward for baptism. Throughout the year, you are invited to learn more about the Good Shepherd community through the GS101 program, where you will have an opportunity to engage in authentic conversations about faith and church.

If you are a member of Good Shepherd and are ready to start talking about baptism, or if you have any other questions not addressed here, contact Pastor Richard Goeres, richard.goeres@gslchurch.org for more information and conversation.

If you would like more information about becoming a member of Good Shepherd, contact the Church Office, info@gslchurch.org.

We are united with all the baptized in the one body of Christ.