Baptisms
Your Child's Baptism
A celebration of new life and a welcome into the Church
We are delighted that you are considering having your child baptised. Baptism is a very important occasion both for the church and for your family, and one that we take very seriously.
In the case of a young child, over the years to come, it is a journey you will share together with your child by being there for your child to talk to about the bigger questions of life – questions about hope, faith and love. Praying for your child through the ups and downs of their faith journey. Showing them practically how to make those good choices in life. Helping them to learn more about their Christian faith, through their church and in other ways.
It is lovely to have a baptism within the main Sunday service at 10am. It is also possible to have a special baptism service at 12.00pm in which case we can arrange for you to return to a subsequent Sunday morning service so that the certificate can be presented and the child welcomed by the whole congregation.
If you want to arrange a baptism, please contact the Rector, and he, or one of our clergy, will arrange to meet you and explain the significance of baptism, the nature of the service and what the churches offer for children and young people.
Who can be a godparent?
You should have at least two godparents: one of each gender. Traditionally, there are two godparents of the same gender as the child and one of the opposite gender. Godparents can be family members or friends but it is important that you choose people who will take a genuine interest in your child's spiritual welfare and who will pray for your child and the family. They should be baptised themselves and mature enough to act as a godparent.
We are not married - can our child still be baptised here?
Yes. If you would also like to discuss the possibility of getting married, the Rector would be delighted to talk to you about this.
Can older children or adults be baptised?
Yes. If you are considering this, please speak to the Rector.
We do not live in one of the five parishes - can we have our baby baptised here?
It is usual to have your baby baptised in the parish where you live so that your child can be welcomed into, and grow within, your local church family. However there may be particular reasons why you would like a baptism in one of our churches in which case we would contact your local parish priest and this can usually be arranged.
What does it cost?
Baptism is a symbol of God's love for us which is freely given. We make no charge. However if any members of your baptism party wished to make a donation after the service that would be much welcomed.
Any other questions?
More information is available at www.churchofenglandchristenings.org
and if you would like to talk about a baptism in one of our churches please contact us:
Maryanne Fleming (Benefice Administrator)
Tel: 07958 629506
