Holy Baptism
“No one can enter the kingdom of God unless they are born of water and the Spirit.”
John 3:5
A Sacred Beginning
Holy Baptism is the sacrament through which we are united with Jesus Christ, receive new life in Him, and become members of His Church. Following the command of our Lord, the Coptic Orthodox Church baptizes in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. Through Baptism, we participate in the death and resurrection of Christ, receive the forgiveness of sins, and begin a new life as members of the Body of Christ.
Born of Water and the Spirit
Baptism in the
Coptic Orthodox Church
The Coptic Orthodox Church practices Baptism by threefold immersion, in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. The Church baptizes both infants and adults, continuing the ancient sacramental life and faith of the Church. Baptism is closely followed by the Sacrament of Chrismation, in which the newly baptized is anointed with the Holy Myron and receives the gift of the Holy Spirit. The newly baptized is then welcomed into the Eucharistic life of the Church.
Preparing for
Baptism
Because Baptism is a Holy Sacrament, preparation is both practical and spiritual. Specific requirements may vary depending upon individual circumstances. Our priests will help families and individuals understand what is needed, including preparation for the Sacrament, the role and eligibility of godparents, appropriate clothing and items to bring, and scheduling. We encourage you to contact the church before making arrangements or selecting a date, so that one of our priests can guide you through the process.
Infant Baptism
For Orthodox Christian families, the Baptism of a child is a joyful and sacred occasion. Parents and godparents make a commitment to raise the child in the Orthodox Christian faith, teaching them to pray, bringing them to the Divine Liturgy and Holy Communion, and helping them develop a lifelong relationship with Christ. Families wishing to baptize their child are encouraged to contact the church in advance so that a priest can provide guidance regarding preparation, godparents, scheduling, and anything needed for the day of the Baptism.
Adult Baptism
Adults interested in becoming members of the Coptic Orthodox Church are encouraged to begin by meeting with one of our priests. Preparation ordinarily includes
catechism and pastoral guidance, providing an opportunity to learn about Orthodox Christian beliefs, worship, prayer, the Sacraments, and life within the Church. Because every person's circumstances are different, the priest will guide each individual through the appropriate preparation and reception into the Church.
Whether you are preparing for the Baptism of your child or are personally seeking to enter the Orthodox Church, we would be honored to walk with you as you take this important step in the life of faith.