Baptism

The church conveys God's blessing on it members from cradle to grave. The water of life in baptism, common Creed of the confirmation service, marriage in the sight of God, the cross on the coffin – all these sustain hope in life as in death. Man is born to life as blessed and the blessing carries us when we depart this life.

Jesus came and said to them:

"All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me.  Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing 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.  And remember, I am with you always, to the end of the age."

Matthew 28:18-20 (NRSV)
 
In holy baptism a person is received into the universal Christian church and the local congregation. The Lutheran church practices infant baptism. Those wanting to join the Christian church as adolescents (e.g. during confirmation camp) or adults are also baptized.
 
Parents want the very best for their child. In the Christian church the best we know is life as a child of God in his protection and care, and this is received in baptism. In baptism a child joins God's family as God calls the child by name to be his own. (A baptism of a child is also known as a "christening.") Baptism also links a child with centuries-old Christian tradition. Baptism is one of the two sacraments (most sacred rites) of the Lutheran church alongside the Lord's Supper (Holy Communion). In a baptismal service, the person being baptised is marked with the sign of the cross, baptised with water and blessed by the laying on of hands.
Table with two candles and waterbowl waiting for Babtism.