Baptism is an indelible mark upon us, a sign and seal that we belong to God. At YLPC we baptize Adults who are publicly professing their faith in Christ. Since the sign of baptism is understood best in the biblical language of "covenant", we also baptize the children of believing parents (see Genesis 17 regarding the covenant of circumcision, and God's promise that the covenant was for adults and their children).

Since the Apostle Paul argues that in Christ, "There is one body and one Spirit...one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all..." (Ephesians 4:4-6), we conclude that there is one baptism that is required for followers of Jesus. Thus, we recognize baptisms that were performed in other Christian traditions, and we do not re-baptize those who have been previously baptized.

We understand that baptism is not in-and-of-itself a means of salvation, but a means of grace. We trust that children who are baptized belong to God, but we work toward a future hope that they will confirm the faith of the church and personally confess Jesus Christ, choosing to follow him as he has chosen them.

Baptism is not a private event, but a public sacrament wherein other followers of Jesus make commitments to help nurture the faith of the one(s) being baptized. Thus, baptism is normally celebrated in the worship service and water is available from the baptismal font. Baptism can also be celebrated in other appropriate gatherings of the congregation and through various modes (e.g. immersion).

Baptisms are scheduled by contacting the office at (714) 777-6822.