Frequently Asked Questions
What does Orchard Hill Church believe about baptism?
Baptism is one of two Sacraments that we recognize & celebrate, along with Communion. We believe sacraments to be outward, visible signs and seals of God’s invisible, inward grace. We celebrate baptism because we believe it is a gift from God that reminds of the promises He has made to his followers. In baptism we remember that Jesus has given us life, not because we deserve it, but because of God’s grace. Baptism is symbolic of the forgiveness we have received through the death and resurrection of Jesus. Our sins are washed away and we receive new life.
What mode of baptism does Orchard Hill Church celebrate?
We believe that there is biblical evidence that supports both infant & believer baptism. Baptisms also occurred in multiple settings. Our belief is that the focus of baptism is not about the mode (when, where, how much water, etc.), but about what baptism represents. Baptism is a sign and seal of God’s grace. By practicing this sacrament we remember and celebrate what God has already done.
The most traditional mode of baptism in our church family is public infant baptism. This is the mode of baptism that stands center-line with our denomination. We also recognize and do celebrate other modes of baptism:
- Private Baptisms
- Adult or Student Baptisms, commonly referred to as Believer Baptisms
- Baptism by Immersion
- We are also willing to perform Private Dedication ceremonies for parents who prefer not to have their children baptized.
HOW DO I SIGN UP FOR BAPTISM?
A Parent Baptism Class is the starting point at Orchard. If you would like to have your child baptized at OHC, make plans to register for our next quarterly Parent Baptism Class.
(See upcoming schedule) This gives us a chance to meet you and talk about baptism in an informal, small group setting. Our goal is to share what baptism is all about, as well as opportunities we offer for children & families. You also get a chance to meet some of our staff s along with other parents from Orchard Hill Church who are also raising young children.
When do baptisms take place?
Public infant baptisms take place at quarterly Baptism Sundays during morning services on all of our campuses. Private baptisms are scheduled after worship services on a Sunday morning.
How do I schedule a private baptism?
Private infant baptisms are available for families who cannot participate in one of our quarterly Sunday Baptisms or who prefer an intimate celebration with their family. If you would like to arrange a private baptism, we invite you to first participate in our Parent Baptism Class. Private infant baptism ceremonies are scheduled through the Campus Leader and take place following the worship services at each campus. The ceremonies are informal and last no more than 15 minutes.
Which staff members can participate in baptisms & dedications?
It is important to us that one of our commissioned staff members participate in our baptism and dedication ceremonies. Student Ministry leaders are also able to perform baptisms of students in some situations, with the approval of their staff coach. You are free to invite a staff person to participate or we will find someone for you.
What is a child dedication?
Child dedication is available for families who do not wish to baptize their child but still wish to celebrate them and make a commitment to raise their child in a Christian home. All dedication services are done privately between family members and commissioned staff. We ask that parents requesting a child dedication attend a quarterly Parent Baptism Class prior to scheduling the ceremony.
What options are available for students or adults that wish to be baptized?
Once you have registered for student or adult baptism, we will set up a time to meet with you to hear about how you came to faith in Jesus and why you wish to be baptized. There are three options for adults wishing to undergo the sacrament of baptism.
- Baptism by Sprinkling—This can be done privately or publicly on one of our quarterly Baptism Sundays.
- Baptism by Immersion—This can be scheduled privately.
- Celebration of Baptism—Once a year we have an outdoor Celebration of Baptism. We welcome all who have never been baptized and those wishing to publicly reaffirm their baptism as a child to join us in this celebration.