BAPTISMS in the Presbyterian Church

A Sacred Sign of God’s Grace

Baptism is a celebration of new beginnings, forgiveness, and belonging in Christ’s family. We warmly invite you to explore this life-giving sacrament at State College Presbyterian Church.

Baptisms at SCPC

At State College Presbyterian Church, we joyfully baptize adults (who have not been previously baptized), as well as children of current church members and grandchildren of members (when the child’s parents are active members of another congregation).

To learn more about scheduling a baptism or to speak with a pastor, you can reach out to us.

Baptism Sacrament Church – Our Union with Christ

What Baptism Means in the Presbyterian Faith

Baptism is union with Christ. It signifies that we are joined in Christ's death and resurrection and, through God’s grace, share in all Christ’s benefits. Through baptism, our sins are symbolically washed away, and we are welcomed into God’s family — forgiven, renewed, and called to live as disciples of Jesus Christ. It is both a moment of celebration and a lifelong journey of faith, reminding us of our daily call to renounce evil and live by God’s Spirit. Want to learn more about Presbyterian baptism beliefs?

Who Can Be Baptized?

Baptism for Adults

Adults who have not yet been baptized may receive the sacrament when they publicly profess their faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. This often happens at the same time they become members of the church.

Baptism for Children

When we baptize children, we celebrate God’s love that reaches us even before we can fully understand it. Children are presented by their parents, who promise to nurture them in Christian faith and life. As they grow, they will have the opportunity to confirm that faith for themselves.

Baptism (infant baptism, adult baptism) is always celebrated as part of a public worship service. The congregation doesn’t just witness it — they take part, promising to help guide and nurture the baptized person in their walk with Christ.

The Sign and Seal of Baptism

Throughout history, people have used signs and symbols to show belonging — like wedding rings, scouting badges, or pilot wings. In baptism, water is the sign God gave us — representing cleansing, renewal, and belonging to the family of faith.

The waters of baptism remind us of:

The waters of creation, where life began

The flood, where God renewed the world

The Exodus, where God led His people to freedom

Though the water dries, its promise remains — a sign of God’s grace and a seal of His faithfulness to us.

Recognizing Baptisms from Other Churches

Presbyterians Believe that Baptism Happens Only Once

We recognize all Christian baptisms that use water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, regardless of denomination. If you were baptized elsewhere, you don’t need to be baptized again to become Presbyterian. However, there may be times when you’re invited to remember and reaffirm your baptism — a powerful way to renew your faith and gratitude for God’s grace. Special services for the renewal of baptismal vows are held in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), where the entire congregation reaffirms its commitment as God’s covenant people.

The Sacrament of Baptism Unites Us

Unifying People As the Community of Faith

It reminds us that, as followers of Christ, we’re called to guide, teach, and nurture those newly baptized — and in doing so, we grow in our own faith and understanding. Ready to take the next step? Reach out to discuss baptism for yourself or your child. Let’s celebrate this sacred beginning together while discovering Presbyterian baptism.