Ensure that any action taken or statement adopted regarding baptism shall be consistent with these principles:
1. Baptism is an expression of God's grace and "a sign of regeneration and new birth." (The Book of Discipline, Articles of Religion, Article XVII, p. 63.)
2. A personal profession of faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is essential for all persons, including all who were baptized as infants.
3. The United Methodist Church should continue its tradition of infant baptism, recognizing that "Children of believing parents through baptism become the special responsibility of the Church. They should be nurtured and led to personal acceptance of Christ, and by profession of faith confirm their baptism." (The Book of Discipline, Evangelical United Brethren Church Confession of Faith, Article VI, p. 67.)
4. Infant baptism confers prepatory membership. However, baptism alone should not be regarded as conferring full membership or as a substitute for confirmation. The Church should continue to provide training, including confirmation classes, "that will lead to a personal commitment to Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, to an understanding of the Christian faith, and to an appreciation of the privileges and obligation of church membership." (The Book of Discipline, ¶225, p. 126.)
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
Petition Text: 20110-DI-NonDis-O
1996 United Methodist General Conference