Baptism FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Baptism
How can I learn more about baptism and what it means?
We recommend you download the pamphlet that includes information that will help you understand the purpose and significance of baptism as we understand it here at CrossWinds. The pamphlet is brief. If you have more questions or would like to meet with someone to discuss your questions regarding baptism, please email baptism@crosswindschurch.org to set up an appointment to speak with a pastor.
When and where is the next baptism?
At CrossWinds, we do something called “rolling baptisms.” This means that whenever someone is ready to be baptized, we put a date on the calendar that works for them and we baptize them! We also conduct a few church-wide baptisms a year to give the church an opportunity to attend and participate in the baptism celebrations.
Those who are being baptized, either in a small intimate setting or in the church-wide setting, are encouraged to invite friends and family to the event.
What do I do if I want to be baptized?
If you are interested in baptism, please download the baptism brochure here and review the content to decide if baptism is the next step for you.
Next, contact our office, either by phone: 925-560-3800 or by email: baptism@crosswindschurch.org so you can talk with a pastor about your next steps in preparing for your baptism event.
What is a testimony and how do I prepare one?
At your baptism, we ask each person to give a brief sharing about why they are deciding to be baptized. This sharing is called a “testimony.” Think of your testimony as a brief story rather than a speech. It is simply a short story about what brought you to the place to decide to be baptized. Some people say a few sentences. Others speak for a few minutes. The choice is yours. You can share whatever is in your heart. Many people have a fear of public speaking which might prevent them from taking this crucial next step in their spiritual journey. Please do not let the testimony element be a “deal breaker” for you. We can help you and work with you on this. Many people write out their testimonies and read them before they are baptized. This seems to help and alleviate the anxiety of sharing their story. If you would like help preparing your testimony, please download the following one-sheet and it can guide you through writing your testimony.
Who can baptize me?
Our entire pastoral staff is available to baptize individuals. You may also invite your small group leader or important family members/friends to be in the tank with you.
Can my child or infant be baptized?
At CrossWinds, we wait until our children are old enough to believe and understand the true meaning of baptism before we baptize them (typically 7-8 years old). In the Bible, Jesus taught children and prayed for them. But He did not baptize them or command others to baptize them. We believe that children are already under the protection and grace of God until they reach an age when they understand that they are sinners in need of God’s forgiveness. We do conduct child dedications, which is a covenant between the parents and God on behalf of the child. The parents promise to raise their child in the faith until the child is old enough to make his/her own personal decision.
Can I be baptized if I’m not a “member” of CrossWinds?
Crosswinds does not actually have “membership” – we are happy to baptize anyone who has made a decision to trust Christ.
If you have a church home elsewhere, we do encourage you to be baptized there, surrounded by your church family. However, you are also welcome to be baptized here by one of our pastors.
I have limited mobility; can I be baptized?
At this point, our options for when and where we can do baptisms are limited. Please let us know your situation and we will work to accommodate a celebration for you. Email: baptism@crosswindschurch.org.
Can my friends/family/spouse be baptized alongside me?
Yes, certainly! We often baptized entire families together as well as couples and/or parents and children.