Baptism is central to all Christian traditions, though practices vary quite widely.

Church of the Foothills is related to two progressive Christian denominations, each of which has a distinct baptism tradition.

The Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) has long practiced what is called “believer’s baptism” and it is accomplished through immersion (fulling submersion of the candidate in a baptistery). Generally for children/youth this is done anywhere from age 10-13 (depending on the congregation) after having taken special formation classes. At the time of birth/adoption, the congregation offers a dedication of the new child with parents (and sometimes godparents/sponsors), asking God’s blessing on the child, the family, and the congregation who will nurture them.

The United Church of Christ practices infant baptism and it is accomplished by sprinkling (a small amount of water on the head of the candidate) with parents (and sometimes godparents/sponsors), asking God’s blessing on the child, the family and the congregation who will nurture them. Then at about 12-13 the students go through a confirmation class. Confirmation is held on a Sunday morning and the youth is asked to confirm the promises parents made on her/his behalf at baptism.

Both denominations baptize older persons, often after some instruction.  And both denominations accept the age/form of baptism offered by other traditions.

At Church of the Foothills, families make decisions on which tradition they wish to follow.  We also practice baptism by Affusion, a method where water is poured on the head of the person being baptized.   Affusion comes from a Latin word meaning “to pour on.”

For more information please contact the Church Office.