Baptism

The Uniting Church understands baptism as a sacrament: a work of God, by grace, through common elements such as water. It does not depend on the person, the minister or the water itself. It is God’s gift to forgive and reconcile us, bring us into right relationship with God, deliver us from the power of evil and death, make us members of the Body of Christ, and bring eternal life and spiritual renewal through the Holy Spirit.

Our baptisms are recognised by the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Church and many Orthodox churches. Details can be provided.

We baptise adults and children, by pouring water over the head or by full immersion, for example in the sea. Baptism by pouring normally takes place during the Sunday service, as the congregation promises to support the baptised person in their faith. Exceptions are sometimes made for people in hospital or in unusual circumstances. If someone has a disability or other special needs, they can be seated for baptism and baptised by pouring water backwards, like having your hair washed at a salon.

For a child

If the child has at least one Christian parent, we usually have two meetings with the family (and godparents, if any). The first covers what baptism means and what it would mean for you as a family; the second covers the practical details and paperwork. With the approval of Church Council, the family joins our church and the baptism is held. When a child is baptised, we hope they will keep worshipping with us and learning the faith. As adults they can confirm the promises made at their baptism at a service of Confirmation, and become Confirmed members of the Uniting Church, eligible for all roles in the life of the church.

If parents aren’t ready for the promises of baptism and church membership but would like a simple time of prayer and thanks for the safe birth of their child, we can offer a Dedication service during a Sunday service.

For an adult

Please speak with the Minister. Your preparation will be tailored to your background and experience. We ask you to read and agree with the Basis of Union and other Uniting Church policies, and with Church Council approval you will be baptised by pouring during a Sunday service, or by immersion at a location arranged with you.

Getting started

Speak to the Minister, email the church, or fill in a yellow Welcome card and hand it in with the offering. The Minister, the Family and Children’s Worker or an Elder will call you. We’d love to meet you.

Weddings

If you are interested in marriage at St Andrew’s, please contact the Minister to talk it over, or come to a service and see what we’re like. Email the church.