Baptism at The Falls Church
The sacrament of baptism leaves an indelible mark on us all. Whether baptized as a child or as an adult, we have been marked as "Christ's own forever." We believe that in this sacramental action we have been forever bound to God and have entered into a covenant relationship with God. Our prayer book notes that "Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's Body the Church." Ever since that special moment in our lives, we share in a calling to Christ’s mission of justice, peace, and love in this world.
The Episcopal Church understands the Baptismal Covenant (BCP, 304-305) as the foundation of our life of faith. If you ever find yourself wondering what God might be calling you into, you’ll find some of your answers right there. This series of questions helps us understand our Christian faith and calling. The Church believes that in the sacrament of baptism, each one of us has chosen to participate in the redemptive mission of Christ in the world. And we do that by 1) continuing in the Apostles’ teaching and breaking of the bread, 2) persevering in resisting evil and always seeking God’s forgiveness when we come short of our calling, 3) proclaiming Christ’s love by word and action in the world, 4) seeking and serving Christ in all persons, loving neighbor as yourself, and finally, 5) striving for justice and peace among all people and respecting the dignity of every human being.
It is the tradition of the Church to celebrate baptisms with the whole community of the church on four principal baptismal Sundays of the liturgical year, and All Saints' Sunday is one of them. This year, the Body of Christ will be blessed by the addition of four new members this coming Sunday at our 11:15 a.m. service.
Our calendar for upcoming baptismal Sundays is:
· The Baptism of our Lord – Sunday January 8, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in the Contemporary Church;
· The Easter Vigil - Saturday April 8, 2023, at 8:00 p.m. in the Historic Church;
· The Day of Pentecost – Sunday May 28, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in the Contemporary Church;
· All Saints’ Sunday – Sunday November 5, 2023, at 11:15 a.m. in the Historic Church.
Should you or someone you know wish to receive the sacrament of baptism, we would be delighted to talk to you, and I look forward to answering any questions that you might have.
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