Preparing for your Baptism

If you are interested in being baptized or have already signed up to be baptized, we are excited for you! Please read this page to prepare for your baptism.

Sign Up to Be Baptized

What is Baptism?

Baptism is something commanded by Jesus Christ, and it is a symbol of His grace and salvation. Baptism is a picture of Christ’s death and resurrection. As we enter into the water or watch another do so, we are reminded that Christ was crucified and raised from the dead and that we, too, have died to the old self in order to live for Christ. It is important you have a full understanding of baptism and why you are choosing to obey Christ in this command.


BAPTISM IS NOT “NECESSARY” FOR SALVATION. Without in any way diminishing the purpose and joy of baptism, we must also warn against the idea which suggests that salvation is dependent upon baptism. The simple truth of the gospel is that we are saved by grace, through faith alone. Baptism is simply an outward demonstration of an inward change that has already taken place in the heart of a believer.

Why should someone be baptized?

1. To obey the commands of Christ

2. To show that you are a disciple of Christ

3. To follow the example of Christ


Scriptures to consider:

Matthew 28:18–20

Acts 2:37–41

Acts 22:16


Baptism isn’t merely a responsibility but also a privilege. We have the opportunity to display our trust in and love for Jesus Christ through our baptism, and therefore it should fill us with great joy. Our desire to be baptized should be motivated by a desire to glorify God in faithful obedience. Any other motivation (to join a particular local church, to please a friend or family member, etc.) should not be the ultimate reason you seek to be baptized.

Should a Person be Re-Baptized?

For those who were sprinkled or immersed at an earlier age, it is important to understand that we only need to be baptized once. If you trusted in Christ at the time of your baptism, your baptism is valid and doesn't need to be repeated. If, however, you experienced sprinkling or immersion in water BEFORE being born again and trusting Christ, your experience was not baptism, and thus you need to be baptized. The question is, “Was I truly trusting in Christ when I was baptized?”


There should always be seasons of growth and greater periods of maturity in the life of those who have trusted in the gospel. Believers must not be re-baptized each time they experience greater joy and sanctification. However, if you believe that your original experience was prior to truly trusting in Christ as Lord and Savior, you should pursue obedience in this area by being baptized now.

When Should a Person Be Baptized?

It’s not too late or too soon to be baptized as long as a person is a born-again believer. Once a person trusts Christ, he or she can and should be baptized. The Scriptures do not speak of a delay in which a believer postpones baptism. In all the accounts in the Scriptures, baptism is rather immediate upon salvation, and we aim to mirror that model.


“Now why do you delay? Get up and be baptized, and wash away your sins, calling on His name.” - Acts‬ ‭22:16‬ ‭NASB1995‬‬

How should a person be baptized?

Though other denominations and theological traditions may baptize by pouring or sprinkling, Calvary Chapel practices baptism by immersion*. We believe scripture supports baptism by immersion based on the following: The Greek word βαπτίζω (baptizo) means to plunge, submerge or immerse.


Identifying in Christ’s death and resurrection is best expressed through immersion. Resurrection is accomplished by coming out of something (whether grave or tomb). Immersion best symbolizes this reality by actually placing the believer under the water and bringing them out.


*We do make considerations for those unable to be immersed due to a physical limitation; these are considered on a case by case basis.

Preparing for the day of your baptism

1. What to Wear

Wear dark shorts and a dark shirt to maintain modesty.


2. What to Bring

Bring a change of clothes, towel, and bag to hold your wet clothes after you change.


3. When to Arrive

Arrive 30 minutes prior to the service where you are being baptized. Please check in at the info desk and let us know that you're here.