We regularly hold infant baptism ceremonies, usually during morning worship. Please see the information below if you would like to find out more about what this means for you and your child.
Infant Baptism and Christening A Guide for Parents
Even before a word is on my tongue,
O Lord, you know it completely…
For it was you who formed my inwards parts;
you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:4,13
Baptism for your child
You might already have started to think about having your child baptized (or christened – it means the same thing). As a parent you will want the best for your child and as a church we would be delighted and privileged to help you think about what baptism might mean for you and your family.
Baptism is simply a way of declaring that God loves each of us. At the beginning of a new life such love takes on a special meaning. When a child is baptized we are showing that God will continue to love this child unconditionally all through its life.
The meaning of Baptism
Baptism has a range of special meanings but for most parents it is a way of:
- Saying thank you to God for your child
- Acknowledging God’s love for your child
- Publicly declaring your love for your child
Showing your intention to bring up your child in the Christian faith
For the Church baptism is special too. For us it is a sign of welcome – the way in which we can celebrate that a new young life has joined God’s family. Most of all baptism reminds us that Jesus Christ has lived, died and risen again for everyone so that no matter how young or old we are we can always begin again in new life.
Taking things further
Our minister would be very happy to talk with you further about what it means to have your child baptized. His details are on the back of this leaflet. Making an appointment will not commit you to anything!
Arranging a baptism is very simple:
- The minister will talk with you about the meaning of baptism and if you then decide to proceed he will fix a date with you for the baptism to take place
- You will be given a copy of the words that we use in the baptism service. The minister will then arrange to meet with you a few days beforehand and go through the details of the service with you.
Some points to note
- Baptisms nearly always take place during a Sunday morning service. This is at 10.30 am and lasts for about an hour.
- A baptism is free! (Although you will be invited to make a free will offering as part of the service)
- You will be given a certificate and a candle for your child to remind you of the special day.
- Parents and godparents are invited to make promises as a response to God’s love for your child.