Introduction: A New Beginning through Baptism
As an LDS Priest with a rich and diverse background, I have come to deeply appreciate the transformative power of baptism within the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Baptism is not only a commitment to follow Christ but a covenant with God, marking a profound spiritual rebirth. For someone like me, who has traversed a journey from Islam to Christianity, from socialism to conservatism, and from doubt to faith, the words spoken during the ritual hold immense significance. These words encapsulate the promises made by both the individual being baptized and the Lord who redeems them.
The Ritual of Baptism: An Overview
Baptism within the LDS faith is performed by immersion, symbolizing the death, burial, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. It represents the washing away of sins and the beginning of a new life in the gospel. As a Priest in the Aaronic Priesthood, I am privileged to perform this sacred ordinance, using the exact words revealed by Jesus Christ Himself. These words ensure that the baptism is not only a physical act but also a divine covenant recognized in heaven.
When baptizing a new convert, the Priest raises their right arm to the square and pronounces the following words:
"Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost. Amen."
(Doctrine and Covenants 20:73)
These words are not merely a formula but a declaration of divine authority. As someone who has walked the path from spiritual bondage to liberation in Christ, I find profound meaning in each phrase:
"Having been commissioned of Jesus Christ"
This phrase acknowledges the Priesthood authority, which is a sacred trust given by God. It signifies that the ordinance is performed in Christ’s name and power, not merely by human effort."I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost"
This invocation of the Godhead reflects the unity of the divine plan of salvation. It affirms the convert’s commitment to live according to the will of the Father, follow the example of the Son, and receive guidance from the Holy Spirit."Amen"
This final word seals the ordinance with divine affirmation, signifying that the covenant has been witnessed in heaven.
Personal Reflections
As an Iranian-American ex-Muslim, this ritual carries unique weight for me. In Islam, baptism is nonexistent; faith in Allah is professed verbally, and salvation is earned through deeds, as opposed to the LDS understanding of grace and covenants. Coming from a background where spiritual rituals often lacked the relational aspect of a covenant with God, the LDS baptismal ordinance stands out as a powerful expression of divine love and commitment.
Performing this ordinance reminds me of my own baptism into the LDS Church, where I left behind the shadows of doubt and entered into the light of Christ. It is a moment where old identities are washed away, and new beginnings are born in the Savior’s embrace.
Conclusion: A Divine Covenant
The words of the LDS baptismal ordinance serve as a bridge between mortal imperfection and divine perfection. For those of us who have traveled diverse and challenging paths to come to the waters of baptism, they are a testament to the universality of Christ’s atonement and the beauty of His gospel. Every time I speak these words, I am reminded of the sacred privilege of participating in God’s work and witnessing the transformative power of His love.
Citations
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Scriptures: Doctrine and Covenants 20:73. Available at: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/scriptures/dc-testament/dc/20.73
- The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. General Handbook: Serving in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. Available at: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/manual/general-handbook
- Holland, Jeffrey R. Come Unto Me. Ensign, May 1998. Available at: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/study/ensign/1998/05/come-unto-me
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