The sacrament of baptism is an outward and visible sign of the grace of God. Through baptism a person is joined with the universal church, and God works in us the power of forgiveness, the renewal of the spirit, and the knowledge of the call to be God’s people always.Baptism with water and the Holy Spirit is the sign and seal of our common discipleship. Since baptism is God’s gift, the Holy Spirit is called to be upon the water and those being baptized. The act of baptism also marks the beginning of new life of discipleship with Christ, the human response to that gift. Baptism always occurs during a worship service and includes promises between parents, sponcers (Godparents), and the community to raise a child (or walk alonside an adult) in the love and knowledge of God.