At The Highlands we believe that baptism is for everyone who believes in Christ and has chosen to follow Him. In baptism, people express faith in Jesus Christ and publicly acknowledge their commitment to Him, therefore, baptism is an important expression of faith. We are obeying God when we choose to be baptized as Jesus commanded His followers to be baptized in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

SYMBOLISM OF BAPTISM

Scripture teaches that baptism is a symbol of Christ's death, burial, and resurrection - that as believers, we were buried with Christ and then raised with Him. Thus, baptism symbolizes the passing of our old life and the beginning of our new life as a Christian. Though baptism does not save us in and of itself, it does allow us to demonstrate publicly that we have chosen to follow Christ and have been saved by Him.

METHOD OF BAPTISM

The Greek New Testament word for baptism literally means "to dip or immerse". At The Highlands we follow this example. We believe immersion in water preserves and fulfills this meaning of baptism. It best symbolizes our union with Christ, our spiritual cleansing and forgiveness and our promised resurrection.

I was baptized as an infant. Should I be baptized again? 

Your infant baptism shows your family's desire for you to know God and align your life with Him. Being baptized now reflects you relationship with Christ and desire to follow Him. This baptism does not diminish your infant baptism, it is your affirmation of it.

Can families be baptized together?

Yes. We encourage it just as long as each family member fully understands the meaning of baptism and desires to follow Christ. The Highlands generally permits the baptism of children who are nine years of age (or have completed third grade) because children at this age are able to express their belief and understand their actions.

Is baptism required for membership at The Highlands Church?

Being a fellowship member of The Highlands does not have baptism as a pre-condition, but we encourage all those who have a relationship with Christ to celebrate faith through baptism.

Child dedication is the act of setting a child apart for a sacred purpose. It is a public commitment made before God, your family, and your church. During the dedication service, parents express their desire to lead and spiritually nurture their child, guiding them to love God and others.

Child dedication is different from baptism. Baptism is a personal decision that follows an individual’s belief in Christ, repentance of sin, and public confession of faith and commitment to Jesus.

Schedule Child Dedication

We celebrate baptism throughout all stages of life. If you have questions about being baptized, contact the corresponding staff member:

• Adults: Luke McClain

• Students (Grades 5th–12th): Brody Egeberg

• Children (4th Grade & Younger): Kori Ragan