Joseph Stambaugh's Baptismal Certificate

Translated from German:

CENTER

To these two, husband John Stambaugh and his wife, Catherine, whose maiden name was Heilman, while they were living in Paradise Township, York County in the State of Pennsylvania in North America, was born a son on the 12th day of March in the year of our Lord 1823. (It was this son) whom the Minister Albert baptized and gave the name of Joseph. Sponsors were Michael Stambaugh and his wife Anna Marie.

UPPER LEFT CORNER

Fear God and keep His commandments; for this is the whole duty of man. Ecclesiastes 12:13

LOWER LEFT CORNER

I have been baptized. Even if I die soon, what does the cool grave hurt me? For I know my Fatherland and Inheritance which God in Heaven has given me and after my death He has ready for my heavenly joy and Sunday clothes. (white robe)

UPPER RIGHT CORNER

I think often of you death
Often of eternity
And I pray, O Jesus, make me ready and prepared.

LOWER RIGHT CORNER

I have been baptized. I am bound (united) through my baptism with my God. So I always speak with joyful tongue (be it) in Cross, in Affliction, Fear, and Need that I have been baptized. This makes me joyful. The joy remains eternally. Amen