What is Baptism?

Christian baptism is a two thousand year-old tradition of publicly and personally acknowledging that one has heard and believed the gospel message of Jesus Christ.  Jesus was baptized by immersion in water at the beginning of his public ministry (Matt. 3:13-17).  Each person who decides to follow Christ must take this step of his or her own accord.

What is our Association's View of Baptism?

Our association, the Associated Gospel Churches of Canada (AGC), believes that the New Testament clearly prescribes baptism for believing disciples as a sign and a statement of the believer’s death to sin and resurrection to new of life.  Further, we practice immersion as the mode of baptism prescribed by the New Testament in accordance with its word meanings, examples, and symbolism.

Feel free to view the AGC Policy on Water Baptism.

How can one Arrange to be Baptized at C4?

When a person decides that they wish to be baptized, they may complete a Baptism Interest Form and contact the church office to find out when the next opportunity to be baptized is scheduled. A few weeks prior to the day of the baptism the candidates are invited to attend classes where they have the opportunity to ask questions and learn more about baptism. These classes are offered several times a year and are usually hosted by one of our pastors.

What does Baptism by Immersion look like?

A large baptismal tank full of water is set up in view of the congregation. The person being baptized enters the tank accompanied by a pastor. Often the person will be given a chance to share how they came to believe in Jesus as their Saviour.

The baptizing pastor will ask, “Have you accepted Christ as your personal savior? Will you follow him for the rest of your life?”
The person being baptized will respond “yes” to both questions, and the pastor will then lower the person into the water while pronouncing “I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.”

If you are a new Christian, or you have been a believer for some time, but have never taken this step, then C4 encourages you to visit a class to find out more.