Celebrate your new life

Baptism pictures Jesus’ death, burial and resurrection. Going under the water and coming back up shows that your old life is gone and your new life in Christ has begun.

Romans 6:3–5 · 2 Corinthians 5:17

No. Only faith in Jesus saves you. Baptism shows that you already believe. It’s like a wedding ring: an outward sign of a commitment you’ve already made in your heart.

To follow Jesus’ example, to obey His command and to follow the pattern of the first believers. It also celebrates that God has made you part of His family, the Church.

Mark 1:9–11 · Matthew 28:19–20 · Acts 18:8 · 1 Corinthians 12:13

Everyone who has put their faith in Jesus.

Acts 2:41 · Acts 8:12

As soon as you’ve believed. There’s no reason to wait. If you wait until you feel “perfect,” you’ll never feel ready.

Acts 8:35–38

Jesus was baptized that way, and every baptism in the Bible was by immersion. The Greek word baptizo means to immerse, and going under the water best pictures dying and rising with Christ. Martin Luther, John Calvin and John Wesley all agreed.

Matthew 3:16 · Romans 6:4

Yes, once they understand the decision and can share their own story of following Jesus. Email baptism@newstorychurch.com and we’ll talk it through with you.

Yes. After you apply, you’ll join a short baptism prep gathering. We’ll walk you through what baptism means, what to bring and what to expect on the day.

We baptize in the ocean every summer at Church at the Beach and at church throughout the year. Apply and we’ll let you know the next date.