The Sacred Mysteries

Holy Baptism

The sacrament of initiation into the Body of Christ

The Sacrament of Holy Baptism in the Armenian Apostolic Church is the foundational rite of initiation into the Christian faith. It marks the beginning of a new life in Christ and full membership in the Church.

What Is Baptism?

Baptism (Armenian: Mkrtut'iun or Mkrtel) comes from the Greek word meaning “to wash” or immerse in water. It is the sacrament through which a person is cleansed of original sin, reborn spiritually, and adopted as a child of God.

Jesus Christ Himself was baptized by St. John the Baptist in the River Jordan, setting the example for all believers. He commanded His disciples: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).

In the Armenian Apostolic Church, Baptism, Chrismation (Confirmation), and First Holy Communion are celebrated together as the Sacraments of Initiation. This unified rite brings the person fully into the life of the Church.

Why Do We Baptize?

  • Cleansing and Rebirth: Through immersion in blessed water, the person is washed from original sin (inherited from Adam and Eve) and enters a new life as a member of the Body of Christ.
  • Salvation: Jesus taught, “Unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God” (John 3:5). Baptism is essential for salvation.
  • Sealing with the Holy Spirit: Chrismation immediately follows, anointing the newly baptized with holy Muron (chrism) to receive the gifts of the Holy Spirit.
  • Union with Christ: First Communion nourishes the new Christian with the Body and Blood of Christ.

Baptism is performed only once in a lifetime, provided it was done with water in the name of the Holy Trinity. The Armenian Church recognizes valid Trinitarian baptisms from other Christian traditions.

The Rite of Baptism

The Armenian baptismal service is rich in symbolism and follows ancient traditions:

  • The godfather renounces Satan on the child's behalf, professes the Nicene Creed, and makes the sacred threefold request for “faith, hope, love, and baptism.”
  • The water is blessed and the candidate is immersed three times in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit — symbolizing Christ's three days in the tomb and His resurrection.
  • The newly baptized is anointed with holy Muron on key parts of the body (forehead, eyes, ears, nose, mouth, hands, feet, etc.).
  • They receive First Holy Communion.
  • A white garment (“Robe of Gladness”) may be placed on the child, symbolizing purity and new life.

“Faith, Hope, Love, and Baptism”

After the Creed is professed, the priest asks the godfather three times: “What does this child request?”

“Faith, hope, love, and baptism — to be baptized and justified, to be cleansed of sins, to be freed from demons, and to serve God.”

Armenian: Havadk, hooys, ser, yev mgurdutyun

This echoes 1 Corinthians 13:13 — the three theological virtues of faith, hope, and love — joined with the explicit request for the sacrament itself. The priest responds: “Be it unto thee according to thy faith.”

The service is a public act of the community, welcoming the new member into the parish family.

Timing: Traditionally, infants are baptized between the 8th and 40th day after birth, though it can occur at any age. Adult baptisms are also performed.

The Role of Godparents

The godfather — known in Armenian as the Kavor (Gnkahayr) — holds a central role in the rite, speaking on behalf of the child who cannot yet speak for themselves. Many parishes today welcome both a godfather and a godmother.

For the ceremony, godparents typically provide ritual items: a cross and chain (blessed during the service), white towels, and a candle.

Their commitment extends far beyond the day of baptism. Godparents pledge to support the child's faith throughout life — offering spiritual guidance, Christian example, and ongoing involvement in Church life. Godparenthood creates a lasting bond, akin to a second set of parents devoted to the child's spiritual formation.

At least one godparent must be a baptized and chrismated member of the Armenian Apostolic Church; a second godparent, if named, should be a baptized Christian.

Practical Information for Families at St. Mary

  • Schedule the baptism with the Pastor well in advance.
  • Prepare items such as an Armenian-style cross and chain, white towels, and appropriate clothing.
  • The ceremony is joyful and communal — family and friends are encouraged to participate.
  • Post-baptism traditions include a special washing at home (often on the third day) with godparents present, where blessed water is respectfully returned to the earth.

Baptism is not just a one-day event but the start of a lifelong journey of faith, supported by the parish community at St. Mary.

Why Baptism Matters for Our Parish

Through Baptism, we are united as one Body in Christ — past, present, and future members of the Armenian Apostolic Church. It connects us to the ancient faith of our forefathers, who first adopted Christianity as a nation in 301 AD, and to the universal Church.

If you are expecting a child, considering baptism for yourself or a loved one, or simply want to learn more, please contact the Pastor at St. Mary. He will be happy to explain the sacrament in detail and guide you through the process.

“As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ.” (Galatians 3:27)

Ready to schedule a Baptism?

Contact the parish office to speak with our Pastor and begin the process.