In the final chapter of Matthew’s gospel Jesus instructs his disciples to ‘Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything that I have commanded you’ (Matthew 28:19-20).

Baptism is a symbolic washing by water with prayer. The Anglican Articles of Religion describe baptism as ‘a sign of regeneration or new birth’. It is a public declaration that God has welcomed us into his family.

St Mark's is pleased to baptise people of all ages who wish to make public their faith in Jesus Christ. If you are ready to be baptised or wishing to explore this further, come to one of our Sunday services and speak to one of our ministers.

Children’s Baptism

The Anglican Articles of Religion encourage the baptism of children. The promises of the forgiveness of sin and our adoption as children of God ‘are visibly signed and sealed by virtue of prayer unto God’ (Article 27).

Children who are to be baptised, make promises through their sponsors (parents and godparents). For this reason sponsors are required to declare their Christian faith publicly, affirm the Apostles’ Creed and promise with God’s help to live as a disciple of Christ, which requires a commitment to gathering regularly with other church members.

A Thanksgiving service for a child is an alternative option if sponsors are not ready for all that baptism involves. A Thanksgiving service does not replace baptism, but provides an opportunity to thank God for the birth of a child, declare the child’s name and seek God’s blessing upon the family. Sponsors are not asked to make a profession of faith in Christ.

For more information and enquiries, contact our office on (03) 9882 3776 or office@stmarkscamberwell.org.au.