Welcome to your baptism journey at Preston trail!

If you would like a family member or friend to baptize you, that’s great! Our one requirement is that they have already made the personal decision to be baptized as a follower of Jesus. If your chosen baptizer was only baptized as an infant, please reach out so we can find another meaningful way for them to support you.

Once you have invited your baptizer and confirmed their own baptism status, please let us know the following:

• Their name
• Their email address
• Their primary relationship to you (Mom, Spouse, Friend, Rooted Leader, etc.)

We reserve a section of seats near the baptistry for all friends and family. We recommend they plan to arrive 15-20 minutes before service, as our “reserved seating” signage is removed once the service begins.

People to Stand Behind the Baptistry
If you have close friends, group members, or family who have been especially influential in your decision to be baptized, please invite them to stand behind the baptistry during your baptism. They’ll be directed where to go by a team member at the appropriate time during the service.

If you haven't already done so, please watch the short video at the top of this page for the why behind recording your video.

Please submit your baptism video at least one week prior to your baptism date.
 
What to say in your video:

• At the start of your video, please complete the statement “To me, following Jesus means….”
• Please end your video by stating your profession of faith “Jesus Christ is my Lord and Savior”
• Between these two statements, you are welcome to add more context for your personal faith journey, including specific people or ministries that helped you find Jesus or choose to follow him in baptism.

How to Record Your Video:

• Turn your camera to landscape mode. You should be in frame from the chest-up with a little room at the top of your head.
• Your video should be about 30 seconds long.
• Speak clearly, dress modestly, and avoid shirts with writing or busy patterns.
• Film in a well-lit, quiet space.
• Practice a few times first.
• Check out a few example videos to know what yours might look like. 

Video Upload Instructions:
Before upload, please rename your video with your name, baptism date and service time.
For example: JSmith_June1_9am.mov
Upload Video Here

What to Bring

• Arrive wearing dark swim/athletic shorts or leggings
• Preston Trail baptism shirt (provided on-site)
• Change of clothes, undergarments, toiletries, etc.
• Towel (we’ll have some on hand)
• Bag for wet clothing

When & Where to Arrive

• 9 A.M. Baptism: Check-in at 8:20 A.M. | Meeting at 8:30 A.M.
• 11 A.M. Baptism: Check-in at 10:20 A.M. | Meeting at 10:30 A.M.
  Meet in Atrium 4 (hallway behind the reception desk)

Where to Sit
Reserved and marked seating near the baptistry will be available for your guests.

Photographer
Our team will take professional photos and videos. You’ll receive a link to our baptism video and our Flickr album the week after baptism.

We are so thankful for the influence you’ve had in the life of your loved one. Your faithful example of following Jesus as your personal Lord and Savior has helped lead them to this meaningful step of baptism.

Baptism is a sacred moment, and your presence in the baptistry is a powerful reflection of your investment in their spiritual journey. We want to make sure you feel confident and prepared to support your baptizee on their special day. Below you’ll find all the details you need — from what to say to what to wear.

What to Wear & Bring

• Arrive wearing dark swim/athletic shorts or leggings
• A dark t-shirt, like black or navy, with no writing or a ministry shirt (Rooted, Next Gen, etc.)
• Towel (we'll also provide one)
• Change of clothes, toiletries
• Bag for wet items

Arrival Times

• 9 A.M. Baptism: Arrive at 8:20 A.M.
• 11 A.M. Baptism: Arrive at 10:20 A.M.
  Meet in Atrium 4 (hallway behind the reception desk)

What to Say

1. Ask: “What is your profession of faith?”
2. Baptize with:
   “It is upon this profession of faith that I baptize you in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Buried with Christ in baptism, raised to walk in brand new life!”

You’re free to enjoy the rest of the service! We will have a simple photo op available to celebrate the day. Once edited, photos and videos will be shared with you via email.

Still have questions?
Reach out anytime:
📧 baptism@prestontrail.org | 📧 kcarter@prestontrail.org