Baptisms
Getting Started
Who do I call?
To setup a baptism, or to find out information on baptisms at FPCO, please contact Paula Lindrum in Worship at 407.423.3441 x1451. Or Email Paula.
Is FPCO membership required for parents?
Yes.
Are there other requirements?
Yes. A brief Baptism Preparation Meeting is held the last Sunday of each month. Attendance is required for parents having their children baptized the following month. At this orientation, the pastor will explain the theology of infant baptism and all the logistical details and plans will be explained and finalized.
What services include baptism?
All of the Sunday morning services--traditional and Genesis--may include baptism and you may schedule in for the service you prefer.
How many other children will be baptized with my child?
With rare exception, only one child is baptized in each service. Because of this, baptisms are frequently scheduled several weeks or even months ahead.
On the morning of the baptism, where do I go, first?
You will gather 30 minutes prior to the service in the King Parlor, which is located in the Edington Ministry Center (entrance in the middle of the block on Rosalind), just behind the information desk. You will be met there by a Baptism Assistant who will help you with all the details of the morning, including showing your guests to their seats in the Sanctuary.
How many guests may I bring?
As many as you like! Just be sure we have an accurate number so we will be able to reserve just enough seats.
Who stands with the child to be baptized?
The parents and siblings of the child.
What about godparents?
Godparents may be a part of your family's tradition and they are welcome to sit with the family members in the reserved seating, however they do not come to the front when your child is baptized. At First Presbyterian Church, the congregation commits to nurture the child spiritually and serve as mentors and support to the family -- similar to the godparent role in other churches.
What does my child wear on the day of baptism?
Usually children wear white or pastel colors. This is a holy moment for your family, and many families choose a baptism gown, however a suit or dress is also quite satisfactory. Parents should dress as they would for a special church occasion.
Is it ok for my baby to wear a hat?
Yes. The pastor will remove the hat for the actual baptism.
What about pictures?
The baptism assistant will be happy to help with photographs before and after the service. The pastor will also be pleased to pose for pictures either before or after the service. During the service, we ask that anyone taking pictures remain in their seat and not use any additional lighting -- NO FLASH, PLEASE.
What if my child gets sick and we cannot get to the scheduled baptism?
Please call the Pastor's Assistant at 407.956.5805 and leave a message.
What happens after the baptism?
You have several options. You may: 1) join your family and guests in the front rows reserved for you, 2) take your child to the nursery and come back to the service, or 3) return to the King Parlor where there is a large screen television to view the worship service.
Note: Please do not leave valuables (purses, cameras, etc.) unattended in the King Parlor or elsewhere.
Still have more questions? Email Us.