Baptisms and Confirmations

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Under the direction of the presiding authority, a worthy priest or man who holds the Melchizedek Priesthood may perform a baptism. Both the man performing the baptism and the person being baptized are to wear white clothing that is not transparent when wet. Often you will see someone off to the side of the font with towels ready for when they both exit the water to help cover them, and dry them.

“Two priests or men who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood witness each baptism to be sure it is performed properly. The baptism must be repeated if the words are not spoken exactly as given in Doctrine and Covenants 20:73 or if part of the person’s body or clothing was not immersed completely (Family-Guidebook on lds.org). “

Confirmation

Converts who are age nine or older and those who are eight whose parents are both nonmembers are confirmed in a sacrament meeting (see D&C 20:41). Eight-year-old children may be confirmed immediately after the baptism at the baptism location if at least one parent is a member of the Church and both parents give permission for the baptism and confirmation. Under the direction of the bishop or branch president, one or more men who hold the Melchizedek Priesthood may perform this ordinance. They place their hands lightly on the person’s head (Family-Guidebook on lds.org).

Below is a 3 x 5 card you can print on heavy paper or card stock and cut out to take with you as a reference. The steps listed on the card are word for word from the Church’s website.

Instructions for Baptizing: