Baptism
In the Episcopal tradition, a person may be baptized at any age. Parents who bring their young children to be baptized make an additional commitment to raise these children in the Christian faith. For infants and children, it is required that at least one parent be an active member of St. James. We welcome adult baptism too for St. James' members. On baptismal Sundays, we offer baptism during any of our regularly scheduled worship service because Baptism is a community celebration. |
Baptisms are especially appropriate on the following days:
A baptismal rehearsal is usually scheduled for each baptism on the Saturday before. Consistent with the ancient tradition, it is required that every baptismal candidate have a godparent (for children) or a sponsor (for adults). Godparents and sponsors are typically present at the time of the baptism and serve as a Christian friend and mentor throughout life. Godparents and sponsors must be baptized Christians. We additionally recommend that you select someone who is active in their faith community, and with whom you can anticipate a long-term relationship. One to three godparents or sponsors per candidate is appropriate.
If you are interested in baptism, please fill out the following form and return it to our Priest-in-Charge. You can also contact our priest with questions or for more details by calling the Church at 231-627-6011 and leave a message if needed.
For those who are not members of St. James parish, and wish us to celebrate an infant baptism, we would like you to have your own parish priest provide a letter attesting to your participation in the life of your home parish. If this is not possible, please allow for a longer preparation time before we celebrate the requested baptism.
- The Easter Vigil
- The Day of Pentecost
- All Saint's Day
- The Feast of the Baptism of the Lord
- During the Bishop's Pastoral Visit
A baptismal rehearsal is usually scheduled for each baptism on the Saturday before. Consistent with the ancient tradition, it is required that every baptismal candidate have a godparent (for children) or a sponsor (for adults). Godparents and sponsors are typically present at the time of the baptism and serve as a Christian friend and mentor throughout life. Godparents and sponsors must be baptized Christians. We additionally recommend that you select someone who is active in their faith community, and with whom you can anticipate a long-term relationship. One to three godparents or sponsors per candidate is appropriate.
If you are interested in baptism, please fill out the following form and return it to our Priest-in-Charge. You can also contact our priest with questions or for more details by calling the Church at 231-627-6011 and leave a message if needed.
For those who are not members of St. James parish, and wish us to celebrate an infant baptism, we would like you to have your own parish priest provide a letter attesting to your participation in the life of your home parish. If this is not possible, please allow for a longer preparation time before we celebrate the requested baptism.
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Baptismal Preparation Videos
The Episcopal Church has prepared a series of three short videos that describe preparation for baptism. They are available HERE.
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