Baptism

Baptism is one of the most important steps in the life of a Hutterite. Baptism is when Hutterites make a vow to God and to the church to remain steadfast and faithful for the remainder of their lives. It is taken very seriously by members.

Hutterites typically ask for baptism between their 20th and 30th birthday. Baptism comes after the young people have received religious instructions for 5 to 10 years in school, Sunday School, and church. Long before baptism is requested, the individual is expected to show clear signs of a regenerate life, and a commitment to the faith. It is an important decision in the life of a Hutterite and proper emphasis is placed on preparation. Individual who have shown through their lifestyle that they are truly serious and really want to belong to the church of God are baptized.

Baptismal candidates making their Sunday afternoon rounds.

When young people feel ready to make a commitment to baptism, they meet with the senior minister and make a formal request.  The minister brings this request to the whole brotherhood and if there are no objections, they are accepted for a probation period. Every Sunday afternoon for 6 to 7 weeks, the baptismal candidates visit each of the witness brothers who provides spiritual and religious teachings ranging in length from ten minutes to over an hour.

Hutterites accept all 12 points of the Apostle’s Creed as Truth. All members publicly declare their belief in The Apostle’s Creed upon baptism.

The Apostle’s Creed

1. I believe in God the Father Almighty, Maker of Heaven and earth.
2. and in Jesus Christ, His only Son, our Lord
3. who was conceived by the Holy Spirit, born of the virgin Mary,
4. suffered under Pontius Pilate, was crucified, died, and was buried: He descended into Hell:
5. the third day He rose again from the dead.
6. He ascended into Heaven,
7. and sits at the right hand of God the Father Almighty.
8. From thence He shall come to judge the living and the dead.
9. I believe in the Holy Spirit,
10. one holy Christian Church, the fellowship of saints,
11. the forgiveness of sins,
12. the resurrection of the body, and the life everlasting.

After taking the baptismal vow, members are considered full members of the Hutterian Church. Greater responsibilities are often given to baptised members, and they are expected to help mold the younger generation and to guide them in their journey to Christ.