St. John's Lutheran Ministries
The Sacrament of Holy Baptism
Baptism is a sacred gift from God — not just ordinary water, but water combined with His Word and command. This sacrament was given to the Church by our Lord Jesus Christ when He said:
“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.”
— Matthew 28:19
In Holy Baptism, God Himself forgives sins, rescues from death and the power of the devil, and grants eternal salvation to all who believe these promises — a faith created and sustained by the Holy Spirit (Mark 16:16; Titus 3:5).
Although it appears to be simple water, Baptism is powerful because it is joined with Christ’s Word. It is a life-giving washing of new birth, a true rebirth accomplished by God Himself.
Baptism also unites us to Christ’s death and resurrection:
- Our old sinful nature is drowned through daily repentance.
- A new life of righteousness and purity begins, just as Christ was buried and rose again for us (Romans 6:4).
In Baptism, God does for us what we could never do ourselves: He forgives, claims, and unites us to Christ, promising that nothing — not even death — can separate us from His love.
LUTHER'S SMALL CATECHISM ON BAPTISM
Baptism at Saint John's Lutheran Ministry
Saint John’s Lutheran Church practices Baptism for individuals of all ages, following our Lord’s command and the teaching of the Small Catechism. While membership at Saint John’s is not required to schedule a baptism, it is strongly encouraged, as Baptism is the beginning of a lifelong life in the Christian faith, nurtured in the congregation.
Baptisms are normally celebrated during regular worship services, emphasizing the communal nature of the sacrament. In rare circumstances, a private baptism may be arranged after discussion with a pastor.
Individuals seeking Baptism — whether for themselves or for a child in their care — should schedule an appointment with a pastor to discuss the sacrament and its meaning. You may contact the church office at:
Phone: (608) 742-9000, option 4
Email: ministries@stjohnsportage.com
ONLINE FORM FOR INFANT/CHILD BAPTISMS
Please Complete this form and return it to the church office.
If you prefer to print off the form in PDF and complete it, please use this form.
The Role of Sponsors (God Parents)
From the earliest days of the Church, it has been the custom to appoint sponsors (or godparents) for baptismal candidates. In the Evangelical Lutheran Church, sponsors are expected to confess the faith expressed in the Apostles’ Creed and taught in Luther’s Small Catechism.
Whenever possible, sponsors should witness the Baptism of those they sponsor and continue to pray for them, support their instruction, and encourage their growth in the Christian faith. They should guide them toward the faithful reception of the Lord’s Supper and, at all times, serve as examples of a holy life in Christ and love for neighbor.
Sponsors should be chosen with careful prayer and discernment. Ideally, they are regular worshipers in a Christian congregation that practices infant Baptism, living out the faith they profess, and modeling faithful Christian life.
The Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper
Saint John’s celebrates the Lord’s Supper, knowing that it is the true body and blood of our Lord Jesus Christ under the bread and wine, instituted by Christ Himself for us Christians to eat and drink. In this meal, God gives forgiveness of sins, strengthens our union with Christ, and nurtures the unity of His Church.
Our Lord invites to His table all baptized and instructed Christians who believe His promises in this Sacrament, repent of their sins, and desire to live in love for others as He loves us.
Holy Communion is also a public testimony of our unity of faith. If you are not a member of this congregation or another congregation of The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod, please speak with the pastor before communing.
Because those who eat and drink our Lord’s body and blood unworthily do so to their great harm (1 Corinthians 11:27–29), all individuals who commune should first spiritually examine themselves. This self-examination may include questions such as:
- Do I believe I am a sinner?
- Do I trust Jesus Christ as my Savior by the power of the Holy Spirit?
- Do I believe Christ’s words that I receive His true body and true blood in this meal?
- Do I repent of my sins and intend to amend my life according to God’s Word?
If you cannot confidently answer “yes” to these questions, please speak with the pastor privately before receiving the Lord’s Supper.