Baptism

An outward sign of an inward reality.

Baptism by water immersion is a way to publicly profess your personal faith in Jesus Christ. We would love to celebrate this step with you.

Next baptism: October 11, 2026

A man raising his hand in celebration after being baptized at Pleasant Valley Church.

What we believe about baptism

What is baptism?

Baptism is a public declaration that says, “I am a follower of Jesus Christ.” Baptism does not save us from our sins, but it is a major step in our discipleship. Salvation is experienced entirely by grace through faith. It is God's free gift to all who believe that Jesus has already paid the full price for their sins.

Ephesians 2:8–9 · John 1:12 · John 3:16

Baptism by immersion portrays this meaning: going under the water symbolizes the death of Jesus, and coming up out of the water symbolizes His resurrection.

Romans 6:1–7 · Colossians 2:12

Who should be baptized?

Every person who believes in Jesus.

“Those who believe and accepted His message were baptized…” Acts 2:41

“Simon himself believed and was baptized.” Acts 8:13

“But when they believed Philip as he preached the Good News…and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.” Acts 8:12

Although Christians may differ over infant baptism, we should never divide over it. Our tradition at Pleasant Valley Church is parent/child dedication.

Why is it important to be baptized?

We follow the example set by Christ, and we obey His command.

“At that time Jesus came from Nazareth and was baptized by John in the river.”
Mark 1:9

“All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:18–20

When should I be baptized?

There is no reason to delay. As soon as you have received Christ into your life, you can and should be baptized. If you wait until you are perfect, you will never feel “good enough.”

“Those who accepted his message were baptized…that day.”
Acts 2:41

Getting ready for baptism

A little preparation will help you feel comfortable and ready to celebrate.

We provide

A baptism T-shirt
Towels for your use
An area to change

What to wear

Medium or dark-colored pants or shorts
Clothing that retains minimal water
Shoes that slip off easily

What to bring

A change of clothes for after the service
A plastic bag for your wet clothes

What to expect on baptism day

Here is how an indoor baptism during our worship celebration works.

Arrive 20 minutes early
Meet just outside the Ministry Center doors 20 minutes before the service begins. We will give you your T-shirt and time to change, answer questions, explain the order of the baptisms, and pray together. Then everyone being baptized will sit in the front row in front of the baptismal.
Help the church get to know you
Your picture and a brief introduction will be displayed outside the Ministry Center doors so our church family can celebrate with you.
Join the worship celebration
Baptisms take place during worship. The service begins as normal, and after the first song the pastor welcomes everyone and briefly explains the service. The person doing the first baptism comes forward, followed by the first person being baptized. Each person then comes forward in turn.
Be baptized
The person baptizing you will ask a few simple questions. This conversation will not be heard by the audience. When they reach out an arm, hold it with both hands, hold your breath, and be ready to lean back or sit into the water. You will be immersed for just a few seconds.
Change and return to the service
After you leave the pool, we will hand you a towel. When you are ready, leave the stage along the side of the Ministry Center and go to the upstairs bathroom to change. Leave your wet towel in the tote provided in the bathroom, then come back and enjoy the rest of the service.
Remember the celebration
A photo gallery of the baptisms will be available on our Facebook page a few weeks after the celebration.

What about parent/child dedication?

The Bible teaches that parents have the primary responsibility to nurture their children's faith. Parent/child dedication is an opportunity to publicly present your child to the Lord and commit to being godly parents. Our church commits to supporting and encouraging you in that role.

Children of any age can be dedicated; it is not only for babies. Parent/child dedications are planned three times a year during Sunday worship celebrations. A private dedication can also be arranged.

Watch PV Happenings and church announcements for upcoming Dedication Sundays, or call the church office at (507) 452-5518. Plan to attend the preparation meeting before your chosen date. Before the event, the office will need a picture of your child and, if you would like, a Scripture verse of your choice.

Our next baptism is October 11, 2026

Ready to take this step of faith? Join us for our next baptism celebration. Sign up through Church Center, and reach out to our team if you have any questions.

Prefer a copy to keep? View the original baptism guide (PDF)

We would love to walk with you.

Our next baptism is October 11, 2026. Sign up to take your next step, or talk with our team if you have questions.