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Baptism represents a new birth: the
old man is gone, and in his place is a new babe in Christ. Nothing is
more exciting than knowing another soul has fulfilled the plan of
salvation. Amidst the excitement surrounding baptism in Jesus' name,
record keepers and baptistry workers provide assistance with the
baptismal process and establish a contact link between the individual
and the church.
The
Record Keepers/Baptistry department is divided into several teams: the
sanctuary record keepers, baptistry keepers, portable-baptistry
keepers, the laundry team, the robe-making team, and an administrative
team. These teams work together in an attempt to reach every soul that
prays at the altar.
Baptistry
keepers complete a Spiritual Birth Record of information on each person
who is baptized during regularly scheduled services. They also fill
out a baptismal certificate and update the list of baptisms. Tracts on
baptism, repentance, and the Holy Ghost; orientation invitations; and
gift packs are given to everyone who is baptized.
Workers
assist in the baptismal process by providing individuals with robes,
shorts, and towels. Following services, workers make sure the area is
cleaned, mopped, and dried. The laundry team is responsible for
washing, drying, and storing baptismal robes.
Information
from the Spiritual Birth Records is given to ministry team leaders, the
orientation department (for adults) or appropriate youth ministry, and
the database operators. Workers in this department maintain a
database, which contains all the information collected.
Record
keepers are on duty during all services. If someone is baptized at
another time, it is the responsibility of the baptizing minister to
complete all records. All information is completed prior to the actual
baptism. Anyone under 18 years of age must have a signed
parental/guardian consent form.
Ultimately,
those who are a part of the record keepers/baptistry department work to
ensure that all people who pray at the altar and are baptized receive
proper care and can be contacted from the information recorded.
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