READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP IN YOUR FAITH?


If you're considering baptism, click one of the buttons below for your guide to preparing for this significant step in your spiritual journey.

I'm an adult (18+ years)I'm a youth (Gr 6–12)I'm a child (up to Grade 5)

ADULT BAPTISM PROCESS

  1. Begin with the 7-day devotional All In.
    Start the devotional to explore the deeper meaning of baptism—why it’s important, what it symbolizes, and how it relates to your walk with Jesus. Try to find an unhurried and focused time each day to work on it. There is a theme each day associated with key Bible passages and questions. Feel free to journal your thoughts or questions as you go along.
  2. Complete the baptism inquiry form.
    This is the first step toward making your decision for baptism official. It’s a quick process that helps us get the necessary information to support you.
  3. Attend the Baptism Info Session.
    Join other baptism candidates to review the core essentials of baptism, learn what to expect throughout the baptism process at the bridge, and meet the pastoral staff who will guide you. It’s a great chance to get your questions answered and hear how we'll support you every step of the way.
  4. Meet with a pastor.
    You’ll have a one-on-one meeting with a pastor to discuss about the 7-day devotional, as well as any questions or thoughts you have. This is a time to ensure you fully understand what baptism represents and how it fits into your spiritual life. Our pastors are here to guide and support you in your journey.
  5. Prepare your testimony.
    Take time to write your baptism testimony with up to 500 words. This is an opportunity to share your personal story—how you came to know Christ, how He’s shaped your life, and why you’re choosing baptism as the next step. We’ve provided this guide to help you structure your testimony. Please send your written testimony to Pastor Anki for review at least one week before your scheduled filming session.
  6. Record your testimony.
    Closer to the baptism date, you will receive a registration link to schedule a time to film your testimony with Pastor Jeff. There is no need to memorize your written testimony, as there will be prompts.
  7. Prepare for baptism day.
    On the day of your baptism, you'll participate in a brief orientation to familiarize yourself with the baptism tank and set up. You will have time to prepare and settle in before the baptism begins. 

YOUTH BAPTISM PROCESS

For youth in grades 6 to 12

  1. Dive into the 7-day devotional.
    Start with the All In devotional plan. It’s an eye-opener about what baptism is all about—why it matters, what it symbolizes, and how it’s an epic part of following Jesus. This is your foundation, so make it count!
  2. Fill out the baptism inquiry form.
    Think of this as step one in making it official! Quick and simple—you’ve got this.
  3. Attend the Baptism Info Session.
    Thinking about getting baptized? Come join up with others who are too! We’ll talk about what baptism really means, walk you through what to expect, and introduce you to the pastors who’ll be with you every step of the way. It’s a safe space to ask questions, get answers, and feel supported as you take this awesome next step in your faith.
  4. Chat with Pastor Jonathan.
    A dedicated time to share your thoughts, ask questions, and make sure everything’s crystal clear.
  5. Craft your baptism testimony.
    This is the chance to share YOUR journey—how you met Christ, how He’s impacted your life, and why you’re taking this next step. (Pro tip: Use this guide to make it easy!) Send your story to Pastor Jonathan at least a week before your testimony filming session.
  6. Lights, Camera, Testimony!
    Set up a filming session with Pastor Jeff to record your testimony video. Don’t overthink it; it’s just your genuine story shared in a simple, authentic way.
  7. Get ready for baptism day.
    On the big day, you’ll have a quick orientation tour at the bridge. We don’t want any surprises before you get dunked.

CHILD BAPTISM PROCESS

For children grade 5 and younger

  1. Watch the “What is Baptism?: BIG QUESTIONS WITH DOT AND BOUNCY” video on YouTube.
  2. If you would like to proceed with the baptism process, please fill out the Baptism Inquiry Form.
  3. Once your form has been received, an interview with Pastor Gaveena will be scheduled.
  4. Use the “My Baptism Story” template to write your testimony.
  5. A follow-up meeting will be scheduled so that Pastor Gaveena can go over your child’s testimony and get them ready to record it with Pastor Jeff.
  6. Schedule a testimony filming session with Pastor Jeff.
  7. Baptism Day Orientation: a brief tour at the bridge on the day of your baptism.

Baptism FAQ

If you have committed your life to Jesus Christ and to following Him, then baptism is your next step. It would be our honour to journey with you in taking that next step! Read on for some frequently asked questions.

Baptism is an outward expression of an inward reality. It makes public the profession of your faith in Jesus Christ. You do not come to faith in Christ because you are baptized; you are baptized because you have already come to faith in Christ. 

Scripture References: John 1:12, Acts 4:12 

It’s a symbolic picture of your transformation in Christ. Jesus died, was buried, and rose again from the dead. Baptism symbolically tells that same story of how Jesus has created a new life in you by coming to faith in Him. 

Scripture Reference: Romans 6:1–5 

If you have believed and accepted the message of Jesus Christ, then you are ready to be baptized. Ask yourself: Do I love Jesus? Do I believe he is the Truth, the Way, and the Life? Am I committed to following Jesus the best I can for the rest of my life? If you answered ‘yes’ to those questions, then you are ready to be baptized. 

Scripture Reference: Acts 2:41 

Because Jesus Himself was baptized (Matthew 3:16-17). Because Jesus calls us to be baptized (Matthew 28:19). Because it is our story of faith in Jesus to be shared with others (Acts 2:41). The reason we enter into baptism is to follow the example of Jesus and because he himself asks for our followership in this action. 

The reason the bridge does baptism publicly is because baptism is meant to be a joyful, shared celebration of someone’s decision to follow Jesus. It’s not just a private moment between a person and God—but also a public declaration of faith in Jesus Christ, signifying a commitment to following him and fulfilling His teachings and mission through His body, the church. In the Bible, baptism always happened in front of others as a way of showing faith openly and inviting the community to be part of the journey. It gives everyone a chance to celebrate together, encourage the person being baptized, and remind all of us of the hope and new life we have in Christ.

Yes!  One of the purposes of baptism is to “go public” with your faith in Jesus Christ. Telling that story seals it for you, encourages others in their faith journey, and proclaims Jesus to all who are there.   

We suggest you wear dark pants or shorts and a dark shirt. Socks are optional. Bring a towel with you and a set of dry clothes to change into (there will be a change room provided for you). 

Take some time to review the baptism process found above and make the decision whether this is the right next step for you. If you would like to discuss further with a pastor, please email Pastor Anki at ahuynh@thebridgemarkham.com and we will set up a time where we can connect one-on-one. If you are ready to be baptized and don’t have any further questions, please proceed with filling out the baptism inquiry form.

Get In Touch

Got further questions about baptism at the bridge? Contact Pastor Anki.