"Holy Baptism is full initiation by water and the Holy Spirit into Christ's Body, the Church. The bond which God establishes in Baptism is indissoluble. " Book of Common Prayer, page 298

Baptism is the way one becomes a member of the church, but more than that, it is the Sacrament of inclusion into God's covenant. Baptism marks the beginning of our life in Christ within the community of faith; it signifies our adoption into the people of God. Baptism is a concrete action, a sacrament, "an outward and visible sign of an inward and spiritual grace."

REQUIREMENTS AND PROCEDURES FOR BAPTISM

Because "we are buried with Christ by Baptism into his death and raised with him to newness of life", it is especially appropriate to administer Holy Baptism at the same time as we are celebrating the other great sacrament, the Holy Eucharist. Therefore, Holy Baptism is administered at Saint Thomas's at the 10:30 a.m. service on Sunday. 

Godparents and Sponsors -- At Saint Thomas's, both parents are normally considered to be Godparents, and they make the promises and take the vows along with the other Godparents. Godparents and sponsors should be baptized Christians and active in the life and ministry at their own church. They need to be per­sons who will maintain close contact and faithfully care for the child throughout life. Godparents need not be Episcopalian.

Arranging for a Baptism – Parents should call the church office to speak to the clergy and request a Baptism application form, which will be sent to the family and completed and returned as soon as possible. There is no "minimum" or "maximum" expected age for Baptism. What is important is the family's intention to see that the child "is brought up In the Christian faith and life." Adults desiring Baptism should speak to one of the clergy.