Baptism (sometimes referred to as ‘Christening’) is a ceremony in which a person joins the Christian Church, not just the Church of England, but the whole Church of God.
It is a beginning rather than an end and indicates a commitment to trying to live a Christian life.
It is a sacrament, which means an outward sign of an inward and spiritual grace, and its sign is washing with water, recalling Jesus’ baptism in the River Jordan.
A baptism service requires serious promises to be made by or parents and godparents, or, in the case of an older child or adult, by the person themselves. Godparents must have been baptised themselves, and parents and godparents will be asked in the service to publicly declare their belief in God and desire to follow the teachings of Jesus.
If these undertakings feel more than you are able in conscience to make, we would be happy to offer a thanksgiving service instead.
It is our genuine intention never to turn anyone away.
Thanksgiving for a Child
The Church of England also offers a service of Thanksgiving for a Child. This would usually be included within a main Sunday service but, if there is good reason, could be held at another time. It is shorter than a christening and does not involve godparents but includes prayers of thanksgiving as well as other prayers for the child and parents.
Adult Baptism
If you were not baptised as a child, you may still be baptised as an adult to show your commitment to the Christian faith.
Often it will be appropriate for baptism to take place at the same time as Confirmation, the occasion when those baptised as children wish to affirm those promises for themselves.
Confirmation
Confirmation marks the point in the Christian journey at which a person, who has previously been baptised, affirms for him or herself the faith into which they have been baptised and the intention to live a life of committed discipleship.
A confirmation is carried out by a bishop who lays hands on the head of and prays over those being confirmed. A confirmation service may take place within the parish or another local church. A candidate would be expected to attend some preparation sessions offered by a minister in the parish or wider benefice.
Contact the Revd Canon Brian Mountford or Revd Lisa Holmes if you would like further information about any of these services.