Baptisms at Duke Chapel
Duke Chapel is happy to provide the opportunity for community members to practice the Christian sacrament of baptism. The Chapel provides two opportunities for taking part in this ancient Christian rite. For members of the Duke community, Duke Chapel offers Memorial Chapel reservations for intimate, family ceremonies to take place on Saturday mornings. Members of the Congregation at Duke Chapel and current students are welcome to participate in quarterly baptisms scheduled during the 11:00 a.m. Sunday morning worship service.
Baptism Reservations
Saturday morning Baptism reservations at Duke Chapel are available to students, staff, faculty, alumni, and their children or grandchildren. These reservations take place in one-hour time slots at 10:30 a.m. and 11:30 a.m., subject to the Chapel’s availability. They can be made no more than six months in advance.
To schedule a Saturday morning baptism, please:
- Fill out our Baptism Inquiry Form or email dukechapel@duke.edu to request a list of available dates.
- Confirm your selected date with our hospitality staff.
- Finalize your reservation by filling out a Baptism Reservation Form.
If you are a member of the Congregation interested in scheduling a baptism during an upcoming 11:00 a.m. worship service, please email congregation@duke.edu.
If you are Roman Catholic interested in pursuing baptism, please contact the Duke Catholic Center at catholic@duke.edu.
FAQs
The Chapel is happy to provide its space free of charge for a baptism, though donations are always welcome.
The Chapel does not provide a minister for baptism reservations, and in fact encourages those planning to a baptism to bring clergy from their home church to conduct the liturgy. However, if you would like help identifying a clergyperson to conduct a service, the Chapel is happy to provide a list of recommended ministers.