A Celebration of New Life, New Beginnings and God’s Love
Baptism also known as a Christening is a joyful and special occasion in the life of the Church. It is a time when we celebrate God’s love for us and welcome someone new into the family of the Church.
Parents and godparents bring the child to church and make solemn vows to God promising to help them grow in faith, surrounded by the love and support of the wider Christian community.
Baptism is not only for children, people can be baptised at any age. Adults and older children who wish to explore the Christian faith and make a commitment for themselves are warmly welcomed.
During the service, water is used as a sign of new life and a fresh beginning with God. The person being baptised is also marked with Holy Oils in the sign of the cross, reminding us that they belong to Christ and are part of his Church.
As part of the celebration and witness of someone becoming a Christian, baptisms are usually held on a Sunday in the main Sung Mass at 10am.
Thinking about Baptism, what next?
In the first instance as part of your discernment (decision making) we ask that you attend church regularly. This will give you an opportunity to meet clergy and members of the congregation. For you to decide do I want to be part of this church am I ready to make that commitment to God. Once clergy and the congregation have got to know you, and you us you will then be given a Baptism Request Form on the understanding that you understand the promises you are making to God, to attend His church and to live as Christians in all areas of your life.
On receipt of this form you and your godparents (for anyone up to the age of 16) will be invited to attend A Baptism Preparation Class which gives you a theological and practical understanding on what happens during the service.
Only after attending the class will you and clergy agree the date of the baptism. Please do not book any venues until after the date has been agreed.
As well as a christening, there is a special, simple service of thanksgiving, which is a lovely time when you can be with friends and family, ask for God’s blessing and pray for your baby. It’s different from a baptism, and you may decide this is the next step to take at this time. Please take a look at our Thanksgiving page under the Services tab.
However, you want to celebrate the gift of life, we are happy to support you on the journey.