Christening or Baptism Service

Baptisms normally happen on the fourth Sunday of the month at the 9.30 a.m. service.

We are delighted that you are thinking of baptism: whether for yourself or for your child we would be very pleased to talk with you about what baptism means and how you can receive the sacrament of baptism in our churches.

Baptism is all about giving thanks to God for the gift of life and for the responsibility of bringing up children. So the service starts with a prayer of thanksgiving. However, baptism is also about making promises as to how you intend to lead your life and, if you are bringing a baby for baptism, how you intend to raise the child. So parents and godparents makes promises about how they are going help the child grow up in the Christian faith and about what they believe.

Baptisms are normally carried out in the main Sunday service, but we are prepared to discuss other arrangements if you would like.

There is no charge for a Baptism service.

For further information about Baptisms do have a look at the Church of England's website www.cofe.anglican.org/lifeevents or contact the priest in charge.

Prayer of Thanksgiving God our creator, we thank you for the wonder of new life and for the mystery of human love. We thank you for all whose support and skill surround and sustain the beginning of life. As Jesus knew love and discipline within a human family, may these children grow in strength and wisdom. As Mary and Joseph knew the joys and pains of bringing up children, give these parents your sustaining grace and love; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen