Baptism - youth

At Otterbein Church we believe that the only path to salvation and a personal relationship with God is through the death and resurrection of Jesus of Jesus Christ. We believe baptism is a way for those who have personally made the decision to follow Christ to go public with their faith and let others know they have committed their lives to following Him.  It is an important distinction to understand that baptism is not what makes you a Christian -- it is simply our way of going public with the decision we have made to become a follower of Jesus. At OC Youth, we love celebrating life change—and baptism is a big part of that!

 

For middle school students interested in being baptized, we ask that the student, their parents, and Pastor Xavier schedule a meeting together. This 45-minute conversation is a chance to walk through the student’s faith journey, testimony, and understanding of baptism.

 

Students will also complete a short packet that covers:

  • The basics of the gospel
  • How to share your testimony
  • The meaning and purpose of baptism

At the end of the meeting, students will schedule a time to record their testimony video and will be all set for their baptism!

 

If you have any questions, feel free to contact Pastor Xavier at xavier.schell@otterbeinchurch.org.



How do I know if I am ready for baptism?

 

Have you made the personal decision to follow Jesus? Through your testimony, is there evidence of a changed heart?


Have you personally expressed an interest in being baptized? As baptism is a personal expression of one’s love and identification with Christ, it is expected that this is your spiritual conviction, not driven by your parents or peers.


Do you have an understanding of the gospel and the meaning of baptism?

  • You should be able to articulate the gospel in your own words, potentially including scripture verses for support.
  • You should be able to verbally share your testimony with others.
  • You understand what baptism is: a symbolic, public display of faith in Jesus.
  • You understand what baptism is not: an action that leads to salvation, something “cool” to do, or a membership requirement.


If you desire to be baptized at our next baptism service, please complete this online form: Middle School Baptism Interest Form

 

If you have questions or would like more information, please contact Xavier Schell, Pastor of Youth Ministries, at xavier.schell@otterbeinchurch.org or 717-762-7147 x232. 

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