This article explains the theology and practice of Holy Baptism in the Anglican Diocese. It outlines whomay be baptised, how preparation should be conducted, and what happens during and after the service. It also provides practical guidelines for clergy and parish leaders.
Baptism is the primary rite of Christian initiation. Jesus commanded his followers to baptise (seeMatthew 28.18–20). Baptism connects us to the life, death, and resurrection of Christ. It’s a gift from God, ministered in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
It has long been the tradition of the Anglican Church to baptise adults, children, and infants. While theNew Testament doesn’t give clear evidence about infant baptism in the first-century church, earlychurch practice by the end of the second century shows that it was common. These historical patterns suggest that baptising infants and children was viewed as appropriate from the Church’s earliest years.
A priest licensed in this diocese should not refuse or discourage infant baptism. The church’s approach to baptism should always reflect celebration, welcome, and inclusiveness.
Baptism reflects God’s generosity. When people come to us seeking baptism, we should give them the experience of welcome, acceptance, and joy that Jesus described in the Kingdom of God.
Preparation should support each candidate’s personal journey. It should nurture their
understanding of the Christian faith in a way that is relational and meaningful.
Parents or guardians must be prepared, but the process should not feel like a test or exam. The focus should be on building a relationship between the family and the faith community. Preparation should feel more like the warmth of a shared meal than a classroom lesson.
The service must use an authorised Anglican rite. The format, flow, and meaning of the service shouldbe explained to the participants beforehand so they know what to expect.
