Baptism at Lakeside
Why get baptized?
One of the key steps in following Jesus is being baptized. It’s a very powerful spiritual experience. It’s a living symbol of the neat change that happens to us as we live each day with Jesus. When we go down into the water it’s like we’re dying to our old way of being — our old self, and coming up out of the water as this new person — the real you! It’s not magic but it is mysterious. God is at work in us as we participate in this beautiful, living, experiential practice. So, who wouldn’t want that?
Frequently Asked Questions
Anyone who is old enough to understand the decision they are making and to personally commit to following Jesus.
We believe baptism is a meaningful step of faith for those who are able to personally understand its significance and make a conscious decision to follow Jesus, but as a theologically diverse church, we deeply respect the tradition of infant baptism that many Christian families hold dear. We’re honoured to offer infant baptisms upon request, typically in a private setting. For families who prefer a different expression, we also offer child dedications – a special moment during a Sunday service where parents commit to raising their child in faith, supported by the prayers and encouragement of our church community.
At Lakeside, we practice full immersion baptism, where the individual is fully submerged for a few seconds under the water as a symbol of death to an old life and rising to a new life. We call that being “made new.” Full immersion baptism also closely follows the example set by Jesus in the New Testament, where He was baptized by immersion (Matthew 3:16). If you have physical limitations or apprehensions we are happy to make accommodations.
No, you do not need to be a partner to be baptized. However, we do encourage you to be a regular part of our Lakeside community, where we can support and grow with you in your faith journey.
To start, you’ll meet with one of our pastors to chat about the meaning of baptism and what it represents. After that, we ask that you submit a short testimony of your faith journey – when you started following Jesus and what difference Jesus has made in your life. If you choose to proceed, we will schedule your baptism. (See below for what to expect the day of.)
If you were baptized as an adult and made a conscious decision to follow Jesus, there is no need for a second baptism. However, if you feel your first baptism was not done according to your faith or understanding, you may choose to be baptized again as a declaration of your renewed commitment.
On the day of, you will step into the tank with one of our pastors, and will be fully immersed in water as a public declaration of your faith. You will be asked to share a brief testimony of your faith before being baptized (this can be done live or recorded prior to the day), and your family and friends are welcome to attend and celebrate with you. We will reserve chairs for them near the front where they can take pictures.
Do enjoy yourself. This is a celebration! We want you to embrace the occasion as you would any other celebration – shoot your hands up in the air, cheer, smile … any joyful expression is welcome and encouraged. Don’t consider this a quiet, solemn occasion. This is a party!