| The question addressed in this work concerns the understanding that some of the laity of Trinity Lutheran Church have of the sacrament of Holy Baptism, and more specifically, to see if there is any correlation between their understanding of baptism and their involvement in the church. In order to answer this question, a series of four focus groups were held. The make up of the four focus groups was as follows: Focus group #1 was comprised of 5–7 individuals over the age of 65; Focus Group #2 was comprised of 5–7 individuals all in there 41–55; Focus Group #3 was comprised of 5–7 individuals between the ages of 35–55. All of the above focus groups were comprised of individuals who worshiped often, and were active in at least one of the churches ministries. Focus group #4 was comprised of 5–7 individuals between the ages of 25–40. These individuals worshiped seldom, and were not active in any of the churches ministries or groups. The key questions asked of this group were: What happens in baptism? What is important to you about your baptism? Is there any relationship between what takes place in baptism, and our life today? Do you ever think about your baptism? If so, when?; Although the four focus groups hold many similar views in regards to baptism, significant differences do exist. The study revealed that the first three focus groups, who were active in the worshiping community, had a richer, more multidimensional view of baptism, while the fourth focus group, comprised of marginal members, had a more one-dimensional view of baptism. The first three focus groups understanding of baptism incorporated a greater sense of the importance of community, the nature of baptism as a gift which in turn calls forth a response, along with a greater awareness of what living in the covenant of baptism entails while the fourth focus group did not. |
