Baptism

an outward Expression of an inward decision.

What is baptism?

An Outward Expression

We are so excited that you are interested in being baptized! We believe that baptism is a big step in your spiritual journey, representing the internal change that the Lord has done in and through your life at the time of salvation. If you're considering baptism, please take a moment to complete the Baptism Interest Form. Once we have mutually agreed that baptism is the right step, you will proceed with registration and submit a written testimony, which will be shared on stage during your baptism. Personal testimonies are such a powerful part of baptism and we want to help you share your story in a powerful way. We are excited to be a part of this journey! Please don’t hesitate to ask any of our leadership team if you have any questions about the baptism process!

OUR 5 POINTS of baptism:

The Water

Water is symbolic in the Scriptures of the washing away of sin. We believe that the water itself holds no power, but it reminds us that we have been washed by the blood of Jesus.

The Dunk

We believe in full immersion because we believe that Jesus Christ went all the way into the grave. This is how we remember that our old self has passed away, and we are a new creation, living a new life in Christ Jesus.

The Rise

We celebrate the rise at baptism because we are celebrating the eternal life that we are witnessing in this moment.

The Church

Baptism is a sacrament of the local church, so when we baptize someone we invite the entire church to be a part of that moment, worshiping and celebrating alongside those being baptized. Community is God’s plan for us to remain in the love of Jesus. We invite your friends and family to be a part of this process with you.

The Story

Each person who gets baptized shares their story with our church. The church triumphs over the enemy by the blood of the Lamb, which is Jesus Christ, and the word of our testimonies (Rev 12:11).

They triumphed over Him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony; they did not love their lives so much as to shrink from death.

Revelation 12:11

most recent baptism

JULY 7, 2024

Interest Form

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What is baptism?

Baptism is a public demonstration of your faith in Jesus Christ. It is not salvation, but rather an act performed on the other side of conversion/salvation. Baptism does not save you or fix you.

How often does ACC host Baptism Gatherings?

Currently, ACC offers one of our Baptism gatherings three times per year: spring, summer and fall. These gatherings typically have two-to-three different gatherings each day as well.

Does ACC Baptize Infants?

At ACC, we believe that baptism is an outward symbol of an inward decision to follow Christ. We believe that decision is made as a choice by each believer for themselves. This means that while we do not baptize infants, we do offer baby dedication as a next step for your child. For more information on Baby Dedication, click here!

What is Baby Dedication?

Baby Dedication is an outward expression of your commitment and responsibility as parents to be spiritual leaders in your home knowing that God has entrusted you to take care of your child physically, emotionally, and spiritually here on earth.

Does ACC re-baptize people?

We believe that baptism is a declaration that needs to only happen once in the life of a believer. If someone consented to and understood the significance of baptism, then we do not re-baptize that person.

Does ACC baptize people who don’t attend or call ACC home?

We truly believe in the beauty of belonging to a church community – it’s where you get to serve, grow, love, and be loved in a way that reflects God’s kingdom. We believe that the local church is God’s plan for belonging, growth and purpose. To that end, we have the expectation that anyone desiring to be baptized at ACC should be in an ACC Community Group (or a similar accountability group) for a minimum of three months.

What does the timeline look like for the baptism process?

The first step toward baptism is to complete and submit the Baptism Interest Form, which typically closes at least one month prior to the next baptism. About 1-2 months prior to the next Baptism, candidates will be assigned to a Baptism Coach. After meeting with the coach, if it is agreed upon by the ACC Baptism Team that baptism is your next best step, then you will be contacted to officially REGISTER for baptism. Once you are registered for baptism, you will be informed of your service time and other day-of details about two weeks prior to Baptism Sunday.

What does the Baptism Coaching process look like?

Once you have submitted the Baptism Interest Form, the ACC Baptism Team will assign you to a Baptism Coach - a respected member of the ACC community. The Coach will answer any questions you have and help you finalize your written testimony to be shared on stage on Baptism Sunday.

What does it mean to share my testimony publicly?

Revelation 12:11 states: “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Sharing your testimony is an opportunity to declare what Jesus has done in your life. A public testimony of faith is not a confession of sins, but rather an opportunity to give God the glory He deserves. Questions one would consider in writing their testimony may include: Who were you before Jesus? Where did He meet you? Where are you now? Who is getting the most glory in your story? What are key points in your life where the Holy Spirit transformed you?

Can ACC provide space for me on-site to celebrate with my family and friends after the service?

While we cannot offer any space in our building after our gathering for you and your family to gather, we do encourage your families to take photos together and use our lobby immediately following the gathering.

What if I want to get baptized but don’t want to share my testimony in public?

We do not want this to deter you from being baptized. Please reach out to Ashley Belcher at abelcher@auburncommunitychurch.com to begin a conversation.