This collection of documents from Crystal Cathedral Ministries (Reformed Church in America) outlines the theological meaning, procedural policies, and liturgical practices surrounding the Sacrament of Baptism, with a particular focus on infant baptism.
Theological Meaning and Imagery
The Royal Family Metaphor: Infant baptism is likened to being born into a "Royal Family" (God's family). Just as a royal child is immediately dressed in appropriate clothing and given special treatment without waiting for them to "choose" their family, baptism serves as the "royal vestment" for a child born to Christian parents.
A Sign and Seal: Baptism is viewed as a sign and seal of God's eternal covenant of grace. It symbolizes the washing away of sins through Jesus Christ and marks the individual’s reception into the "visible membership of the Holy Catholic Church" worldwide.
God’s Initiative: The documents emphasize that baptism symbolizes God's "ever present and constant love". While the child may later choose to "divest themselves" of this heritage, the baptismal identity remains an "irrevocable part of the royal family".
Baptismal Policies (Position Paper)
The ministry establishes specific criteria for who may be baptized at the Crystal Cathedral:
Candidacy: Both believers and their children are permitted to be baptized.
Non-Members: Staff pastors are instructed not to deny baptism to those who are not members of the local church, as baptism signifies entry into the "Church Universal".
Setting: Members and their children are encouraged to be baptized during congregational celebrations where the church can make supportive vows. Non-members may be baptized privately among their own support community of family and friends.
The Liturgy and Vows
A draft of the baptismal service outlines the commitments required during the ceremony:
Parental Vows: Parents must acknowledge the child's sinful nature, promise to pray for and teach the child, and commit to creating a loving home environment that nurtures faith.
Congregational Vows: The church members vow to provide a caring environment to help the child eventually "confess Jesus Christ as their personal Lord and Saviour".
The Act: The baptism is administered "in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit".
Preparation for Families
The ministry provides a preparatory letter to families, encouraging them to reflect on several scriptural questions:
God's Promise: Understanding the covenant as described in Genesis and Acts.
Belonging to God: Reflecting on the love of God through John 3:16.
Willingness to Teach: Committing to bringing children to Jesus as modeled in Mark 10.
Church Purpose: Recognizing the importance of fellowship and doctrine within a local church community.
