It is important to consider the meaning conveyed in the location of the baptism in the church building. A baptismal service held in a narthex or near a door to the sanctuary emphasizes initiation or entry into the church. Baptism held in the center of the sanctuary in the midst of the congregation stresses incorporation into the community of faith. Baptism held at the chancel, near the pulpit and table, accents the connection between baptism, God's word, and communion. A baptismal service held in a place visually cut off from the people communicates that baptism is peripheral to church life.
Water is an essential element of baptism.
Its presence and use should be boldly dramatized in the service. The mode of baptism remains a matter of choice. The candidates, or their parents and sponsors, in consultation with the pastor, may elect sprinkling, immersion, or pouring. . . . By baptism, a person becomes a member of Christ's church and is welcome at Christ's table. For the newly baptized, the journey is from the font to the feast of the table.