The minister of Northbrae is available for baptisms upon request. There is no particular set of religious requirements that must be met as far as the Church is concerned. Families from differing traditions will have different understandings of its significance. We assume you would not be thinking of baptism unless it held some religious importance for you.

You will need to provide the Church Office with the following information:

• full name of the baptized

• full name of the father of baptized

• full name of the mother of baptized

• date of birth

• city and state of birth

• parent's address and phone

• names of godfather and godmother or of two witnesses.

Baptisms often take place one-half hour following our regular Sunday worship service. Other times can be arranged as well, or the baptism can take place at a home. The service is brief and informal. When the service is at Northbrae, the minister will meet you at the entrance to the Chapel at the appointed time. Please invite whatever family and friends you wish. When all the people you expect are present, the minister will direct everyone to the front of the Chapel for the baptism.

If the size of the group allows, the minister will ask everyone to stand in a semicircle behind the parents and godparents/witnesses. Larger groups may wish to be seated so everyone will be able to see. Pictures may be taken in the Chapel, although it is suggested that you avoid using a flash during the service. A Certificate of Baptism will be given to you and a baptismal record kept in the Church files.

Northbrae's perspective is that the service of baptism is not a magic event or a lifetime determination of the religious direction of the person baptized. It is rather an act of the parents, expressing their intention to have religion play a part in their family life, whatever direction their religious life takes. It is also a celebration and thanksgiving for the new life and possibilities of their children.

There is usually a fee to the minister of $50. If travel is involved for the minister, it is at the rate of $4O/hour, round-trip. If the service is at Northbrae’s Chapel, there is usually a gift to the church of $50 as well.                                                         

If you have any further questions, please call the Church Office and speak with the administrator or the minister.

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