Baptism is defined in the Book of Common Prayer as full Initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's Body, The Church. This sacrament is offered within the context of the celebration of the Eucharist on prescribed days in accordance with the Church calendar. This is to allow the entire community to accept responsibility for nurturing of the newly baptized and to welcome them into the household of God.
Holy Baptism is especially appropriate at the Easter Vigil, on the Day of Pentecost, on All Saints' Day or the Sunday after All Saints' Day, and on the Feast of the Baptism of our Lord (the First Sunday after the Epiphany). It is recommended that, as far as possible, Baptisms be reserved for these occasions or when a bishop is present.
You may want to review the service of Holy Baptism prior to filling out this application. The service begins on page 299 in the Book of Common Prayer, with specific questions and vows for parents, godparents, or sponsors found on page 302. An online version of the Book of Common Prayer can be found at:
http://www.bcponline.orgIf you have any questions or concerns regarding baptism at The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, please feel free to contact us using any of the methods below:
email:
baptism@aecst.org; fill out the "FURTHER QUESTIONS" area at the end of this application; contact the Baptism Co-Chairs- Gail Hinton Harris (215) 450-9312 or Patricia Walker-Ellison (215) 643-7223; contact the Rector (215) 473-3065; or email the rector:
rector@aecst.orgPlease note that the information provided below will never be shared, sold or otherwise distributed.