Thinking About Baptism? Find Out How and Where in Ringwood

Have you been wondering about baptism lately? Maybe you’ve recently made a decision to follow Jesus, or perhaps you’re a parent considering having your child baptised. Whatever brought you here, we’re glad you’re exploring this meaningful step of faith.

If you’re in Ringwood or the surrounding Melbourne suburbs, churches offer baptism with practices rooted in Christian tradition. While both Protestant and Catholic churches perform baptisms, understanding the differences can help you make the right choice for your faith journey. Ultimately we would encourage you visit and get planted in a local Church that feels like home, and get water baptised as part of your new spiritual family.

What Is Baptism, Really?

Baptism is a public declaration of your faith in Jesus Christ, an outward expression of an inward decision to follow Him. It’s an act of obedience and Christian witness that marks an important stage in your whole Christian life. Protestant churches view baptism as a symbolic act where believers publicly identify with Jesus’ death and resurrection through the Holy Spirit. It doesn’t save you, faith in Christ does, but it’s a beautiful way to proclaim your commitment to the church community and participate in the mission Jesus gave His followers. We do it in obedience to what the Bible teaches and also following in the example of Jesus Christ, who was baptised himself while He was on earth by John the Baptist (see Matthew Chapter 3).

The Catholic Church views baptism differently, teaching it as the first sacrament of initiation that removes original sin and prepares you for other sacraments, including Eucharist, Confirmation, and Reconciliation. While both traditions value baptism, Protestant churches emphasise it as a step of obedience following your personal decision to trust Christ.

Jesus commanded: “Go 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). Peter said: “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ” (Acts 2:38). Romans 6:4 explains: “We were buried with him through baptism into death in order that we too may live a new life.”

The Baptism Process

Most Protestant churches in Ringwood make the baptism process straightforward and welcoming. Start by contacting a local church through their website or visiting a Sunday worship service. You’ll meet with a pastor or church staff for a preparation session where you’ll discuss the meaning of baptism and share your faith journey, essentially, when and how you decided to follow Jesus. There’s no complicated paperwork, though you may complete a simple baptism registration form with your contact information.

The ceremony typically happens during a Sunday service, creating a celebration for the entire church community. You’ll share a brief testimony about your decision to follow Christ, then be baptised, usually by immersion, being fully submerged in water to symbolise being buried and raised with Jesus. Friends, families, and church members gather to witness this act of Christian witness. Many churches encourage you to invite friends and family, whether they attend church regularly or not.

For Catholic baptism, the process involves more steps: contacting your local parish office, meeting with the parish priest, completing a baptism registration form, attending a baptism preparation session, and choosing two godparents who must be confirmed Catholics who attend Mass regularly. The ceremony occurs during Sunday Mass at the parish.

For Parents Considering Baptism

Protestant churches vary in their approach to baptising children. Many practice “believer’s baptism” or “credobaptism,” meaning they wait until a person is old enough to make their own decision to follow Jesus and understand what baptism means. These churches often offer baby dedication services instead, where parents publicly commit to raising their sons and daughters in the Christian faith, with the church community pledging support. When children later decide to follow Christ—often during their teenage years, they choose baptism for themselves.

Other Protestant churches do baptise infants, viewing it as a covenant act where parents commit to raising their children in faith, similar to how the Catholic Church baptises infants within the first few months of life. Catholic practice requires parents to attend Mass regularly and choose two godparents to support the child’s Christian life and participate in the mission of the Church.

The key difference is emphasis: Protestant infant baptism (when practised) focuses on parental commitment and community support, while Catholic baptism emphasises the sacrament itself and the rite of initiation into the Catholic faith.

Common Questions

Do I need to be baptised to be a Christian?

No. Baptism doesn’t make you a Christian; faith in Jesus Christ does. However, baptism is an important act of obedience that Jesus modelled and commanded. It’s how you publicly declare your faith and join with other believers in following Christ.

What if I were baptised as a baby?

Many people baptised as infants in Catholic or Protestant churches choose to be baptised again as adults to make a personal, conscious declaration of their own faith. This is called “believer’s baptism” and is common in Protestant churches. Discuss this decision with a church pastor.

What happens after baptism?

In Protestant churches, baptism is the beginning of living out your whole Christian life. You’re encouraged to attend Sunday worship regularly, join small groups, serve in the church, and grow in your relationship with Christ. Catholic tradition follows baptism with other sacraments, including Reconciliation, Eucharist, and Confirmation. Both emphasise that baptism marks the start of your journey, not the end.

What about godparents?

Protestant churches typically don’t require godparents for baptism. However, many families invite mentors, church members, or close friends to participate in the ceremony and support their faith journey or their child’s spiritual development.

Is there a donation expected?

Most churches don’t require any payment for baptism. If you’d like to make a donation to support the church mission, you’re welcome to, but it’s not expected.

Finding Churches in Ringwood

Ringwood and surrounding areas including Croydon, Heathmont, Warranwood, and Mitcham—have numerous Protestant churches and Catholic parishes offering baptism. Visit Sunday worship services at different churches to find a community where you feel welcomed and can grow in your faith. Look for churches with clear websites, welcoming church members, and opportunities to connect and participate in community life.

When you find a church that feels right, contact the pastor or church office to discuss baptism. They’ll guide you through the preparation session, help you understand what baptism means, and arrange your ceremony date. The process is designed to be encouraging and supportive, not intimidating.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re considering water baptism in Ringwood, reach out to a local church. Church staff are ready to answer questions and walk alongside you in this decision. Visit Sunday services to experience the community. Come as you are, this is your faith journey, and you don’t have to have everything figured out.

Considering Baptism?

Join us on any Sunday at C3 Powerhouse Melbourne East, and we would love to connect with you and hear your story. Whether exploring baptism for yourself or wanting to learn more about this ceremony, you’re welcome to attend and experience our worship community.

Pastors: Daniel & Ebony Frecker
Location: 3/100 New Street, Ringwood VIC
More Information: c3powerhouse.com/melbourne-east

To arrange baptism: Contact us through our website to complete the baptism registration form and discuss your preparation session.

We’d love to see you there!