Slideshow image

Baptism is the sign and seal of God’s covenant of grace (His promise to be our God and
have us as His people), reminding us that His love claims us, in Jesus Christ, long
before we ever come to know this love personally.


Unlike some denominations, Presbyterians do not require a person to be entirely
immersed in water during baptism. Baptism is received only once. Its effect is not tied to
the moment when it is administered, for it signifies the beginning of life in Christ, not its
completion. We believe that persons of other Christian denominations are part of one
body of Christian believers; therefore, we recognize and accept baptisms by other
Christian churches.

Who Is Eligible To Be Baptized

Baptism is almost always administered as part of a worship service. Baptism must be authorized by the Session and performed by a minister. At Northminster, we baptize two groups of people:

The first group consists of men, women, teenagers and older children who demonstrate both a genuine faith in Jesus Christ and a desire to join the church family.

The second group consists of the infants and children of Northminster Presbyterian Church Covenant Partners (members).

If an infant is being baptized, the child's parents must be active members of Northminster. If they are not Covenant Partners, the parents may be received into membership prior to the baptism. Additionally, if it is an adult baptism, the adult must be a Covenant Partner of the church prior to baptism.

If you need information on becoming a member of the church, click HERE. 

Why Do We Baptize Infants?

We believe children have a right to the covenant sign, which in the New Testament is baptism (in the Old Testament the sign was circumcision). The New Testament witness points to Baptism as the replacement for circumcision (Colossians 2:11-12), a promise that extends to children of believers (Acts 2:38-39). 

Northminster Presbyterian is committed to partnering with parents in nurturing children that they might come to know, love, and serve Jesus Christ. In presenting your children for baptism, know that we are committed to walk alongside you and encourage you in the discipleship of your child. 

Arranging a Baptism

If you would like to make a request for baptism, please complete appropriate form. When we receive the request form we will contact you to set up a meeting with a pastor.

If you would like more information on baptism, please call us at 309.691.6322 or send us an email.

Online Child Baptism Form Paper Child Baptism Form