Holy Cross baptizes all knowing that it is God who is at work to make us who we are created to be, children of God.  On behalf of the whole church, we promise support  to new sisters and brothers, confess the faith, and welcome them into the body of Christ. 

Water connected to the Word, God's saving promised in Jesus Christ, is at the center of the baptismal celebration.   In holy baptism, God delivers us from the forces of evil, puts our sinful self to death, and gives us new birth. By baptism we are adopted and made members of the body of Christ, God's church.

Although a person is baptized once, the gift of baptism continues throughout a Christian's life.  Instruction in the faith for a life of discipleship is part of the preparation.  The ongoing nurture of that faith is part of the congregation's ministries of formation, education, service, and evangelical witness.  We recognize God's work in our lives as we confirm our faith in the ritual of affirmation of baptism (aka confirmation).

In baptism we are made one with Christ and with the whole people of God.  We belong.