Infant Baptism

Infant Baptism is practiced in many different Christian sects and denominations. Latter-day Saints do not practice infant baptism. The main reason we do not practice infant baptism is because we do not believe that babies are born inherently evil, that is we do not believe in the idea of "original sin."

Instead we believe that babies are born innocent, clean and pure. Each child is not accountable for the sin of Adam and Eve and can only be judged by their own choices.

In addition to this, we do not believe that a child is accountable for sin until they have reached the age of Eight. This age has been given by revelation as the age of accountability.

These wonderful babies are found completely within the bounds of Jesus' grace. If a child dies before the age of accountability they are automatically saved through the merits and mercy of Jesus.

The New Testament has no record of Jesus or any of the Apostles baptizing infants. However there is an account of Jesus blessing the little children.

This is the pattern that Latter-day Saints follow. When a child is born to members of the church, they are usually given a blessing by their father (if he is worthy and holds the Priesthood) or by another worthy Priesthood holder.

These blessings are usually done in front of the congregation with the baby surrounded by worthy priesthood holders and one of them acting as voice. The baby is given a name and a blessing. The details of the blessing are given to the one acting as voice by the gift and power of the Holy Ghost.

Later, after the child has grown, and has been taught the gospel of Jesus Christ, they are given the opportunity for Baptism when they turn Eight.

This allows for several things:

1. Babies who die before they are accountable are automatically saved

2. Children are given a chance to learn the Gospel and accept it for themselves.

3. Children are not accountable for Adams transgression.

Who can hold a new born baby and not feel that this baby has just come from Heaven above?

Who can hold a new born baby and say the child is evil? It is an evil doctrine to believe so, and the scriptures do not support it.

This morning I had the wonderful opportunity to stand in the circle and participate in the blessing of my little niece Ada Mae Lisonbee. She is so precious. So beautiful. And so clean. I got to hold her for a little bit. I looked her in the eyes and could see nothing be purity and love.

Children are clean, and pure, and wonderful. They have no need of Baptism until they can make their own choices.

I testify of this in the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.

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