From the First Presidency

Your Baptism Covenant

By President Dallin H. Oaks

First Counselor in the First Presidency

Adapted from “Taking upon Us the Name of Jesus Christ,” Ensign, May 1985, 80–83.

What do we promise Heavenly Father when we are baptized?

We promise to take Jesus Christ’s name upon us, to serve Him, and to keep His commandments.

What does it mean to take Jesus’s name upon us?

1. It means we become members of His Church, The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

2. It means we tell others about our belief in Jesus Christ. We can tell our friends, our neighbors, and others about Him.

3. It means we serve Him and help do His work.

A covenant is a promise that you make with God.

Getting Ready for Baptism

Before your baptism, you’ll have an interview with a member of your bishopric. He’ll ask you some questions like these:

• Do you believe that Jesus Christ is your Savior?

• Do you try your best to obey the commandments?

• Do you feel ready to make a covenant with Heavenly Father?

Follow the maze through each picture to see how you can take Jesus’s name upon you. (Hint: Don’t cross over any black lines.)

See Come, Follow Me for Doctrine and Covenants 12–13; Joseph Smith—History 1:66–75.

Illustrations by Shawna J.C. Tenney