We Believe was held last Sunday and is designed to help kids learn what it means to have a personal relationship with Jesus and what it means to take the step of baptism. The class provides a welcoming space to engage in this conversation with your child and gives parents the tools to answer their questions as you continue the conversation at home.
We sat down with one of the parents who attended this weekend.
1.Why did you attend the class and what were you hoping to learn?
I’ve been attending HG for a couple years now, and as I am taking the step of baptism myself in the next couple of weeks, I wanted my son who is 8 years old to share this class with me, be able to ask questions and talk about what baptism means.I wanted to have this time together and to be able to engage these doubts and questions with the Grace Kids teachers. Also just being able to attend the class and to know our church family is there to guide us in this process it’s great.
2.How do you feel about your son taking the step of baptism after attending “We Believe”?
I am not sure if we are getting baptized on the same day, but I was really happy when my son said “I want to love God forever!” and being able to explain to him that baptism is just that! Loving God forever and making that statement public as we answer this question on stage the day of baptism. I think the class helped him get clarity about what sin is, why we get baptized, and how to explain these concepts to an 8 year old. Regardless of him making the decision now, I know God is working on his heart and giving him clarity.
3.What is your advice to other parents that are struggling with questions about baptism and how to encourage their kids to take this step?
I think as adults we are all in a different stage on our faith journey, and our kids are the same. I would just say to embrace where they are and guide by example! You can rely on the support that we can find in our church family. Also do not be afraid to tell our kids that we don’t have the answer if we don’t! It’s ok to not know, and to seek the right answers. I think it’s important to guide them in the best way possible, so reach out to a staff member at HG with any questions they might have.
4.What was the biggest take away from the class? And for your son?
I think it’s just the fact that I can take a class alongside my son, being able to read and answer these questions together and be able to continue at home. I think he was also able to share his thoughts in an environment where he feels comfortable, and I know he was because he didn’t stop talking!
5.What is baptism for you? Did your idea of baptism change after the class?
I don’t think it changed but it was definitely reinforced. I know this is a step God calls us to, and it’s an important affirmation of our love for Him, and acceptance of God as our savior. I think there is no reason to be hesitant! If you trust what God is doing in your life, and what He did for us, the step of baptism to me, it’s just like saying it out loud how much we love Him!
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