Next Steps at Burton Family Church

Baptism

1. The Background of Water Baptism:

• Biblical Origins: Water baptism traces its roots to the ministry of John the Baptist, who baptized people in the Jordan River as a sign of repentance (Matthew 3:1-6). Jesus Himself was baptized, setting an example for believers to follow (Matthew 3:13-17).
• Early Church Practice: After Jesus' resurrection, baptism became a central practice in the early church. On the Day of Pentecost, Peter preached, and about 3,000 people were baptized as a public declaration of their faith (Acts 2:38-41).
• Symbolism in Scripture: Baptism symbolizes spiritual cleansing (Acts 22:16), death to sin, and resurrection to a new life in Christ (Romans 6:3-4). It is an outward expression of an inward transformation.

2. What Water Baptism Represents:

• Identification with Christ: Baptism signifies your union with Jesus in His death, burial, and resurrection. Going under the water represents dying to your old self, and coming up represents rising to a new life (Colossians 2:12 12 having been buried with him in baptism, in which you were also raised with him through your faith in the working of God, who raised him from the dead ).
• Public Declaration of Faith: Baptism is a public testimony that you have decided to follow Jesus. It demonstrates your commitment to live according to His teachings (Matthew 28:19-2019 Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age ).
• New Life in Christ: Baptism represents being born again and receiving new life through the Holy Spirit (2 Corinthians 5:17 17 Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come:[a] The old has gone, the new is here). It’s a powerful reminder that your past is forgiven, and you are a new creation in Christ.

3. What to Expect During Adult Water Baptism:

• Preparation: You may be asked to share your testimony or why you’ve chosen to be baptized. This is an opportunity to reflect on your faith journey and God's work in your life.
• The Baptism Ceremony: Typically, baptisms are performed in a pool, river, or baptismal tank. A pastor or church leader will guide you through the process, praying with you and briefly explaining the significance of the moment.
• The Immersion: You will be gently lowered into the water and raised up again, symbolizing death to sin and resurrection to new life. This moment is often followed by joyful celebration and prayers of blessing.
• After Baptism: You will be encouraged to join a small group or discipleship class to continue growing in your faith.

Belonging at BFC

Committed to the Vision. Rooted in the Family. Growing Together.

At Burton Family Church, we believe church is more than a place you attend—it's a family you belong to.

Belonging is about choosing to be part of something bigger than yourself. It means committing to the vision and values of BFC, contributing your time and gifts, and growing together in faith, love, and purpose.

Whether you’re new to church or have been walking with Jesus for years, we want to invite you on a journey of connection and commitment.

What Does It Mean to Belong?

When you say yes to belonging at BFC, you’re saying:

• Yes to the Vision – To see lives transformed by the love and power of Jesus in Burton and beyond.
• Yes to the Values – Living out authenticity, generosity, unity, prayer, and the power of the Holy Spirit.
• Yes to the Family – Choosing to walk in relationship with others, encouraging one another and serving together.

Belonging Looks Like:

• Showing Up – Making Sundays and midweek gatherings a priority.
• Serving Together – Using your gifts to build the body and bless the community.
• Giving Faithfully – Contributing to the mission through financial giving.
• Growing in Faith – Pursuing discipleship, accountability, and spiritual growth.
• Being Known – Sharing life with others in honesty, grace, and love.

Ready to Belong?

We regularly host Welcome Breakfasts—a relaxed and relational space where you can hear our story, discover our values, and ask any questions you may have. It’s the perfect first step for anyone wanting to explore life at BFC.

If you’d like to go further, our Foundations Course takes a deeper look at our vision, beliefs, and what it truly means to belong, grow, and serve as part of the BFC family.

Serving in the Church

Serving is a natural part of following Jesus. God has given each of us unique gifts and abilities to bless others and help build up His church. We’d love everyone to find a way to get involved—there’s a place for you here!

1. Serving flows from love

Jesus taught us that greatness in the Kingdom comes through serving others.

• “For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many.” — Mark 10:45
• “Serve one another humbly in love.” — Galatians 5:13

We serve because He first served us.

2. Everyone has a part to play

The church is like a body with many different parts. Each one is needed.

• “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it.” — 1 Corinthians 12:27
• “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace.” — 1 Peter 4:10

Whether upfront or behind the scenes, your service matters.

3. Serving strengthens the church

When we serve, the whole church grows in love and maturity.

• “From him the whole body… grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.” — Ephesians 4:16

Our willingness to serve creates a welcoming, Christ-centered community.

4. Serving brings joy and reward

Serving is not a duty but a joy—it reflects Christ’s heart and brings eternal reward.

• “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” — Colossians 3:23
• “Well done, good and faithful servant… Come and share your master’s happiness!” — Matthew 25:23

5. Practical ways to serve

• Welcome team and hospitality
• Worship and tech
• Children and youth work
• Prayer and pastoral care
• Practical help and community outreach

Serving is worship. When we use our gifts for God’s glory, people encounter Jesus.

Policies

Safeguarding Policy

We regard the protection and safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults as priority. So that we are able to promote the safety and well-being of all, we have put in place a Safeguarding Policy...

Privacy Policy

Burton Family Church does all we can to protect your privacy and make sure the personal data which you share with us is kept safe. As part of this we seek to process all data in accordance within GPDR (UK) guidelines. This policy explains how we collect data, how we use and store information and what it means for you.