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What Happens When You Get Baptized?

By Evee B

People gathered at Myron Lake for an outdoor baptism in Yakima Valley

What happens when you get baptized?

At its simplest: you share that you've placed your faith in Jesus, you're lowered into water and raised back up, and the people around you celebrate with you. There's no test to pass and nothing to perform. Here's what it actually looks like, step by step, so there are no surprises.

If you've never seen a baptism before, or it's been a long time, it's normal to feel a little nervous. Most people do. Here's exactly what to expect.

Do I have to say anything?

Usually just a short, simple statement — something like sharing briefly that you believe Jesus died for your sins and rose again, and that you want to follow Him. It's not a speech and it's not memorized. You can keep it to a sentence or two, in your own words.

What actually happens physically?

You'll walk into the water with whoever is baptizing you. They'll typically ask a simple question or two about your faith, then lower you back into the water — fully submerged for a moment — and raise you back up. That's it. It usually takes less than a minute per person.

What should I wear?

Something you don't mind getting wet and that you're comfortable moving in — many people wear a t-shirt and shorts, or a swimsuit under clothes. Bring a full change of clothes and a towel for afterward.

Will I be alone, or is someone with me?

You won't be alone. Whoever baptizes you will be right there with you the entire time, and the people gathered around are there specifically to support and celebrate with you — not to judge or evaluate.

What if I get nervous or emotional?

That's completely normal, and nobody will think less of you for it. Tears, shaky hands, nervous laughter — all of it happens regularly at baptisms. The moment you come up out of the water is, for most people, one of pure relief and joy.

What happens afterward?

Nothing is required of you afterward — no forms, no follow-up class. You're welcome to stay and celebrate with everyone there, and you're welcome to be part of ongoing gatherings if you'd like, but nothing is owed.

What does this look like at Simply Jesus Prayer Kitchen?

Our baptism event, "I Left It in the River," is on July 25, 2026, at Myron Lake along the Yakima Greenway — outdoors, informal, and free. No class or membership required beforehand. Read more about how that works here →

Moments that whisper are worth remembering. We'd love to be there with you for this one.

Ready to be baptized?

Email us and let us know you're coming — no form, no membership, no class.

simplyjesusprayerkitchen@gmail.com

"Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day."

Acts 2:41 (NKJV)

"As they traveled along the road, they came to some water and the eunuch said, 'Look, here is water. What can stand in the way of my being baptized?'"

Acts 8:36 (NKJV)

"We were therefore buried with him through baptism into death, in order that we too may live a new life."

Romans 6:4 (NKJV)