Congratulations on your interest in baptism. This sacred step reflects your desire to grow in faith and to share it with those you love. Whether you are considering baptism for your child or for yourself, the people of Rosedale United Church are here to walk with you.
On this page, you will find everything you need to know about baptism at Rosedale United Church. When you are ready to begin, please reach out to us. We would be honoured to be part of this meaningful moment in your journey.
Baptism is a sacred ceremony, common to all Christian traditions. While the form may vary, the heart of baptism remains the same. At Rosedale, baptism is:
1. A celebration of God’s love and grace
2. A sign of your faith, or your commitment as a parent to raise your child in the Christian tradition
3. A welcome into the life of the faith community at Rosedale United Church
For more information about the United Church of Canada's views on Baptism, click here.
Baptism begins with a simple willingness to trust in God’s love and to grow in faith. During the service, the minister will ask:
1. Do you affirm your faith in God, your desire to follow the ways of Jesus Christ, and your willingness to be led by the Holy Spirit?
2. If you are baptizing a child, do you promise to raise them in the life of the Church and to help them grow in their own faith?
3. If you are being baptized, do you promise to live as a member of the Church, seeking to follow the teachings of Jesus?
These promises are made in the presence of God and the Rosedale congregation, who in turn promise to support you.
No. You do not need to be a member of Rosedale United Church to be baptized here. We do hope that baptism will be the beginning of a deeper relationship with a faith community. If you feel ready, we would be glad to welcome you as a member of Rosedale.
If membership is not appropriate for your family right now, our minister will be happy to talk with you about how to follow through on the promises made during the ceremony in a way that is meaningful and personal.
Rosedale United Church is an Affirming Ministry. We are proud to baptize the children of same-sex couples and families of all identities. We welcome everyone to celebrate life’s sacred moments with us, exactly as you are.
In the United Church tradition, the entire congregation becomes your child’s godparent. At Rosedale, we promise to surround your child with love, example, and prayer. You are also welcome to choose special individuals to stand with you during the baptism. These loved ones may serve as mentors or spiritual guides in your child’s life.
Because baptism is a welcome into the community, most baptisms at Rosedale take place during regular Sunday morning worship. If this is not possible due to special circumstances, we are open to planning another time. When baptisms take place outside of Sunday worship, members of our Session will be present to represent the congregation.
You are welcome at Rosedale even if you do not live nearby. We often host baptisms for children and families with a connection to our church through grandparents or extended family. In these cases, the people of Rosedale act as representatives of the wider Church, and we encourage you to connect with a local congregation near your home.
When you arrive at Rosedale, you may sit anywhere in the Sanctuary, though we recommend sitting near the front. Reserved seating can be arranged for loved ones if needed.
The baptism takes place early in the service, before the children leave for Sunday School. The minister will invite you forward along with the Clerk of Session and a young member of the Rosedale community. After a welcome and a few words about baptism, you will be asked to respond to two simple questions. The congregation will then express their support.
The minister will gently pour water on the head of the person being baptized in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. A candle will be lit, symbolizing the light of Christ in their life, and you will receive a hand-knit prayer blanket made with love by a member of the Rosedale congregation.
A baptism certificate and keepsake candle box will be presented, and you will return to your seat during the next hymn.
Please check the certificate and let the church office know if anything needs to be corrected.
We ask that no photos be taken during the baptism itself in order to preserve the spirit of worship. However, you are welcome to take pictures following the service. The minister is happy to join you.
If you wish to record the service, we can provide access to the Sanctuary Control Room. Video recording is welcome as long as no extra lighting is used.