For us at Compassion Church the act of baptism is extremely important. Baptism signifies a new beginning. A new chapter. A new slate. A new "today." We believe firmly that Christian baptism is a choice made for those who fully embrace and understand it. For a simplified understanding of something both beautiful and mysterious please continue below. ​

Motivation: Why Should You Be Baptized as a Follower of Jesus?

Baptism is necessary for Christian obedience, and is vital to your growth and maturity as a disciple.  We are encouraged to keep Christ’s commandments through baptism:

1. By the example of Christ when He was baptized. (Matthew 3:13-17; Mark 1:9-11; Luke 3:21-22)
2. By the encouragement of New Testament believers. (Acts 8:26–38; 10:47–48; and 16:25–34)
3. By the explanation of Scripture. (Romans 6:1-14)
4. Lastly, because you are ready to make the greatest decision of your life and publicly declare your love and passion for Jesus and the message of His Kingdom!

Method: How Should You Be Baptized?

Baptism can be confusing for some, but the Bible tells us the method of baptism clearly. It is a picture of our identification with Christ through His death, burial and resurrection. The word baptize in the New Testament means "to immerse,” “to submerge” or “to place under.” Scripture says that Jesus “came up out of the water” when He was baptized. As a result of a clear pattern in Scripture we believe in full immersion in water.

Meaning: Who Should Be Baptized?

Baptism is a public declaration of the believer’s faith in what Jesus both taught and did while He walked the earth. It was never a personal or private act. Those who want to identify with the mystery of what Jesus did through death and resurrection do so through baptism. Our own lives are a mirror of this mystery: in our daily dying to ourselves (immersion into the water) we rise to new life (coming up out of the water). This is often a decision made by those who are new to Christ as well as those who simply have never been baptized. We also welcome those who were baptized as infants but were never free to make the decision for themselves. ​

Moment: When Should You Be Baptized?

You should be baptized as soon as possible following your repentance and newfound faith in the message of Jesus. This is according to the pattern found in Acts 2:41. At Compassion we gather in person with those wanting to be baptized to ensure there is a well rounded understanding from the Scriptures on this important decision. ​

On the Day of Your Baptism:

After you have called and made arrangements to be baptized on a certain date, please adhere to the following:

• Call/ Email to set up your time with one of our trained leaders to discuss baptism at Compassion. 
• Please arrive for instruction 60 minutes prior to the Worship Gathering where you will see the water in the Living Room and do a walk through. 
• Be sure to bring a dark colored shirt and shorts/pants and undergarments to wear during the baptism. 
• For your convenience towels and changing areas are provided. 

Our prayer is that God will make this act of obedience a lasting memory and a powerful testimony to others as you follow Christ in through baptism. Remember, this is the beginning of your journey in discovering the plan and purpose of Christ within you! We are honored to make this happen for you as well as partner with you for the life of discipleship and growth following. 

If you would like to be baptized, please call 330-497-3166 or e-mail [email protected]