A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

This past Sunday at the 2nd service of Christ Church, we had 7 new baptisms.

Instead of the normal one-at-a-time going through the whole baptismal process, they brought the 7 up front in their baptismal robes. They were introduced to the congregation and answered the questions as a group about their understanding of God and the baptismal process and what it was for. They all answered "Yes" to the questions presented to them.

They then left to go behind the stage to be baptized while the congregation and choir were singing. There was no mic, so you couldn't hear what the preacher was saying. After each person went under water, the congregation would cheer and clap while singing the song.

I know the preacher very well that was doing the baptizing, so I know that they were all baptized in Jesus name.

Is it important that we, as a congregation, know exactly what is being said at baptism?

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

No, not if you know how it is being done, why would you need to hear it, you are not being baptized. I think it not necessary to exclude you from the privilage to witness the event. I remember LS preaching about how he had his baptism done in private. He said if he could change anything about it now it would be that he would want everyone to be there and witness.
I was a visitor at Johnny Minnics River of Life in Nash. he covers all his bases by Ac. 2:38and the titles. Because he was miked I know he does both ways at once.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

imo, no it's not important.

this is very similar to how our church does baptisms. the only diff is we have their photo and name on the bigscreen and a quote from them as to why they're being baptized. then they show the person being baptized while the congregation sings and worships. we also do communion on baptism sunday as well.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

It's so ingrained in those of us with UPC DNA to have to hear the words, "I now baptize you in Jesus name!".

This new system requires us to trust the church leadership. As of right now, I trust our church leadership, but if a new guy comes along that I don't know, I might question how he/he is baptizing.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

Agreed. I am sure you find yourself checking on other things in church like the UPC in ya has conditioned you to. I did when I attended a non-UPC church. Now that I am back I look at things differently. Now I look at things more cynically maybe. But there is alot that goes on that is WAY extra biblical. IMO. But again that is the conditioning of the UPCers.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

In the 13 years i have been a member of my church, we have not used a mic. It is UPCI. sometimes you can hear what is being said, most times you cant.


Never has been an issue. I dont believe my home church used a mic either (but I could be wrong its been a long time).

I think this is less of an issue for churches that are committed Oneness churches than some folk think.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

our church is upc also, no mike, even with no music at all, you cant hardly hear, but they baptize in the lovely name of Jesus, so all is well, dt

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

they are usually baptized at our church while we are singing...why would we need to hear the preacher?

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

I like that, group confession, smooth and everyone partipates in the celebration.

Re: A New Trend for Baptisms?
 

Can you guess what I think???????????????????