Choosing the Perfect Baptistry

Choosing the Perfect Baptistry
By: Gerry L. Cofield

Baptism is an exciting and joyful milestone that a Christian will remember for the rest of his or her life. For churches offering immersion baptism, choosing the perfect baptistry can be a daunting responsibility. Before you begin to feel overwhelmed, here are some helpful guidelines to simplify your task.

Most modern baptisteries are constructed of a fiberglass-polyester resin material, having evolved through the years to best meet the needs of a busy church. This material allows for a lightweight, yet durable, product that doesn't rot, corrode, or rust, and is easy to maintain. These baptisteries are typically one-piece units with skid-resistant steps. They are economical and relatively easy to install, while offering a variety of features and accessories. You will want to plan ahead, as most manufacturers construct each baptistry as it is ordered, and construction may take several weeks to more than a month.

The first step in assessing your congregation's needs is to decide where your baptistry will be placed and what the minimum and maximum measurements are for the baptistry. In existing buildings, you will also need to consider the size of the entryway and doorways through which your baptistry will need to fit in order to reach its final location. Once filled with water and people, a baptistry becomes much heavier. Check the construction of your building to make sure it can adequately support the necessary weight. For some churches, a portable (smaller, movable unit) or split version (sold in two pieces that fit through doorways and fit together at the final destination) may be the best option. Remember that locating the baptistry near existing plumbing will make things simpler and much less expensive.

Once you have determined what size you need and have set an appropriate budget for your church, you can consider the many features that are available. Models are available with a single-entry or dual-entry (one or two sets of interior steps). Most baptistry models can be fitted with an optional plexi-glass view window. If a window is not in your budget or is not functional for your baptistry's placement, a mirror can assist the congregation in viewing baptisms as well. Many models can be made in a "stand-behind" or "dry minister" version to allow the person baptizing the candidate to stand outside the baptistry and remain dry. A child's seat can assist in baptizing children or the infirm. Some other options include a cover, a drip landing, and exterior steps.

Each manufacturer offers a selection of colors and finishes from which to choose. Most companies recommend a high-performance vinyl gelcoat or "protective coating" if the water will not be drained after each use. This option is well worth the additional cost in order to protect your investment. The average warranty is a five-year limited one that is included in your baptistry's price. However, some companies offer an extended warranty for an additional fee. Make sure you receive a copy of any warranty and file it with your invoice, should unlikely problems arise.

Unless your baptistry will be directly plumbed to a hot water source, you will need a baptistry water heater to keep the water warm. Permanently installed electric heaters are usually available in 5.5kw or 6kw models for an average size baptistry and 10kw or 11kw models for larger versions. A gas water heater may better suit your needs and operate at a lower monthly rate, but it is initially more expensive. Each of these heaters circulates the water in order to keep it uniformly temperate. An immersion or "drop-in" heater, which is put into the water several hours before use and removed after the water is heated, is often the best option for portable or small baptistry models. Most heating systems come with a one-year limited warranty.

Devices for filling and draining your baptistry can be automatic or manual. The automatic systems typically work in conjunction with the heater and may be outfitted with a timer and control panel for a convenient "universal" control center to manage the entire system. Manual options, such as a manual drain and overflow, fill faucet, or wall spout, work much like the fixtures in a bath tub and, while they lack the ease of a timer and automatic controls, are simple to use and much less expensive.

As with most large purchases, it is preferable to shop around for the best value in a baptistry. Most manufacturers can be found by a simple search on the Internet and are happy to send a free catalogue and information and assist with your decision. Often, your pew supplier or builder can help with your baptistry purchase. Or, you can ask friends, family, neighboring churches, or religious governing bodies for a reputable dealer.

When considering several sources for your baptistry, make sure you are comparing similar models in size and quality with comparable accessories in order to receive accurate price quotes. Chances are, most baptistry manufacturers are not geographically near your church, so be prepared to pay for shipping or take a trip to get your baptistry. Let each company know that you are getting information from their competitor(s) and ask for their best price. You may already have the lowest possible cost, but you want to make sure you are getting optimal savings. If a particular company's customer service stands out, it may indicate a higher level of overall quality and dedication, which is often reflected in their products as well and can be important if you need assistance after the purchase.

Once you have purchased your dream baptistry, you will need to install it properly in order to secure the warranty and ensure a long life for your purchase. Many manufacturers suggest waiting until the baptistry arrives to frame for it. Most baptisteries arrive without a pre-drilled drain hole to ensure the drain placement is right for your situation. It is usually recommended that the drain is placed in a corner, as opposed to the middle of the unit. The best option is to secure the services of a licensed, experienced plumber or contractor to install your baptistry. It is also recommended that a licensed electrician install the heating system. Always read all instructions and suggestions from the manufacturer(s) before installing the baptistry, heater, or any other equipment. This may save you time and money as well as aggravation. If you run into a problem, call your sales representative for help.

After your unit is installed, be sure to protect your investment. Unless it is specifically built to hold water constantly, drain it after each use and wipe it clean. Never use abrasive, caustic, or acidic cleaners on fiberglass baptisteries. If it is filled for more than a day, consult a pool/spa supply company to see if an algaecide is necessary for local water. Make sure any chemicals used are marked safe for polyester resins, and dilute tablets or powders into liquid before putting them into your baptistry. To maintain the best finish possible, wax your baptistry a couple of times each year with a mild wax. Contact the manufacturer at the first sign of any problem with your baptistry; there may be a simple solution if the problem is acted upon quickly.

Most importantly, protect your church family. Any accessible water can present a danger to unsupervised children. Keep the baptistry area locked or supervised at all times when the baptistry is filled. Also, make sure all electrical baptistry accessories are run through a ground fault interrupter to protect from electrical shock. Never stand in or near water with a microphone or other electrical device. Have all electrical devices checked annually by a professional.

With proper care and maintenance, a new baptistry will provide for ease in many joyous baptisms. How exciting to welcome your new members into the church in an elegant and comfortable new baptistry. And, as the Ethiopian eunuch baptized in Acts 8, they can go on their way rejoicing.

Gerry L. Cofield is a freelance writer and the office manager of American Steeples & Baptistries in Wedowee, Alabama, www.americansteeples.com .

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Baptistry Providers

American Rehabilitation Ministries
www.arm.org

American Steeples & Baptistries, Inc.
www.americansteeples.com

Church Innovations
www.churchseat.com

Church Interiors, Inc.
www.churchinteriors.com

Church Pools
www.churchpools.com

ChurchPartner Resource
www.churchpartner.com

Eisenhour Church Furnishings
www.eisenhourchurch.com

Fiberglass Specialties, Inc
www.FSIWEB.com

Heavenly Wood
www.heavenlywood.com