Baptism is the sacrament of initiation into the spiritual community that follows Jesus as his apprentices or disciples. It is understood and experienced to be:

• A covenant with God made by an adult candidate, or on behalf of a candidate who is a child by those who take responsibility for raising this him or her as an apprentice of Jesus.
• The commissioning of the candidate to their vocation (mission and ministry) as an apprentice of Jesus.
• The endowing of the candidate with supernatural gifts for their life and ministry as apprentices of Jesus.
• A commitment to death and resurrection as a means of transformation into "little Christs".

Baptisms at St. Mark's are primarily offered on four key dates (Easter Vigil, Pentecost, First Sunday after All Saints Day, and the Baptism of Jesus), but other times may be worked out if needed.

Baptisms:

• Normally take place as part of the community celebration on Sundays.
• Require baptism instruction for parents and godparents.
• Require a commitment by parents, in the case of a child, to attend and participate in the life of the church.
• In the case of adults, usually require special instruction.

For more information, contact Fr. Ned Bowersox at soxs04@aol.com or 512-353-1979.