About

Sacraments & Ceremonies

Baptism

In the Presbyterian Church (USA), we believe that baptism is a sign of God’s grace and a reminder of God’s faithfulness and unconditional love for humankind. The sacrament of baptism was first practiced by Jesus and continues to affirm that in Christ, each of us are made new and welcomed with love into the beloved family of the church. In the PC (USA), we baptize infants and children because we believe God’s love claims us before we are able to respond in faith.

When a child is baptized, we ask that families, members of Session, and the whole church community make a promise to nurture the newly baptized in their faith. These promises to support and love a child throughout their journey of faith ensure that they are equipped to make a personal profession of faith when they are ready to do so and join in the life and responsibilities of the church.

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Requirements

Candidates for baptism at First Presbyterian Church include infants and children born to members or prospective members of the congregation and adults who, after adequate preparation and instruction, declare their faith in Jesus and their desire for baptism.

We ask that adult candidates for baptism and parents of children being baptized attend a baptism class before their baptism Sunday. This class will include information on the meaning of baptism, logistics of the service, and for parents baptizing children, a tour of the church Nursery and Christian Education building. All baptisms at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights must also be approved by Session in accordance with the polity and theological guidelines of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).

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Upcoming Baptism Class Dates (2024 and 2025)

Sunday, August 18^th
Sunday, October 20^th
Sunday, December 15^th
Sunday, February 16^th
Sunday, April 27^th
Sunday, June 15^th

Scheduling and Next Steps

To begin the process of scheduling a baptism, please complete the baptism form below and submit to Mary Fino by email to [email protected]. Since all baptisms at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights must be approved by Session which meets once a month, submitting a baptism form at least two months before the desired baptism date will help to ensure requested baptism dates can be honored.

Baptisms are livestreamed so online worshippers can take part in welcoming the newest members of our church family. Baptisms can take place during the 9am worship service in the Chapel or the 10:30am worship service in the Sanctuary between the months of September and May and only during 10am worship in the Sanctuary during June through August.

Upcoming Baptism Dates (2024 and 2025)

Sunday, September 15th
Sunday, November 17th
Sunday, January 19th
Sunday, March 16^th
Sunday, May 18^th
Sunday, July 20th

We are delighted that you are interested in baptism at First Presbyterian Church of Arlington Heights! We pray that you will feel the presence of God’s spirit and unconditional love as you consider this important part of the journey of faith.

Baptism Form