Example Baptism Service

We are here to praise God for the life of Emma, our young friend, who in such a short time has brought us so much joy. Through Emma we have experienced birth again in a new and more conscious way; in her, God has created the world again, opening us to wonder and possibility that we had forgotten.

We live not for ourselves alone, but toward God and for each other. Our lives are bound in a covenant of love with Emma. We baptize Emma with our desire to show her a way of life that naturally displays love, respect, and justice. We baptize her with our intention to witness the unfolding of God’s creation as she grows and changes. We baptize her with our desire to be in God’s presence as we are in her presence. We baptize Emma with our desire to see her grow in spiritual maturity, in wisdom, and in soulful service to others, following in the spiritual footsteps of the Christ.

Each of us here has a unique role in raising this beautiful child. Do you, Justin and Kate, commit yourselves to raising her in a manner that inspires faithfulness, compassion, and spiritual growth? If so, say, We do. Do you, the family and friends of Emma, commit yourselves to being a faithful community that will guide and support her through life? If so, say, We do.

Let us each touch the water, and as we do, let us infuse it with our commitments to share with Emma the unique gifts that God has given us, gifts she’ll need from us as she goes along life’s way.

(Godparent holds baptismal chalice and goes around circle, each person touching the water)

Jim Burklo:

To paraphrase the scripture: The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the most high will overshadow you; therefore this child shall be called holy, a child of God.

Let us repeat her name together: Emma ... (Jim does the mark of the cross on her forehead with water): Emma, with this water we baptize you with the love that is God, known to us among other names as the Father, Son, the Holy Spirit, and Mother Wisdom.

Jim holds the child: “I present to you Emma, God’s gift to her parents, to her family, and to all of us! Amen!”