Baptism and Christening are...

'Baptism' and 'Christening' are the words used to describe the same service. Baptism is the biblical word but Christening has been in common usage for many years.

Baptism is a 'sacrament' - an outward and visible sign of an inward invisible grace. Or, in other words, baptism is a service in church that uses water poured over a baby or child as a sign of God's constant loving kindness towards us, of welcome into the family of the church and of the beginning of a journey of faith.

We are delighted you are thinking about baptism for your child and we welcome you to our church. Baptism is though an important decision so please read this pack carefully and if you have any further questions please contact the Parish Office and ask to speak to one of our vicars.

* If you are an adult seeking baptism, please speak to the Parish Office.

Baptism and Christening are not...

A way of giving a child an instant knowledge about Jesus and the church.

Baptism won't make the child 'come on better', either in his/her health or childhood development and it won't set a child 'on the right lines' in terms of his/her behaviour or moral values - that is primarily the parent's role.

It won't make access to church schools easier - it is the parent's baptism and regular attendance at church over several years that are needed when applying to a church school.

Baptism isn't necessary to be married in church.

Baptism isn't a one off event; rather it is the beginning of a life long journey of faith that should embrace Confirmation (a special service where an older child or adult 'owns' the baptism promises for themselves) and personal commitment.