Choosing baptism for yourself or your child is a joyful and significant step. It marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith and belonging within the Christian community. We are delighted to share that journey with you and are committed to supporting you long after the day of the service itself.
In baptism, we celebrate God’s love and welcome people into the family of Christ. Through the symbolism of water, baptism speaks of new life, forgiveness, and a fresh start with God. For adults, it is an opportunity to affirm a personal commitment to follow Jesus. For children, it is a promise made by parents, godparents, and the wider church community to nurture them in the Christian faith so that they can make their own response to God as they grow.
If you are interested in exploring baptism, fill out the contact form and one of our team will be in touch.
Who Can Be Baptised?
Baptism is a gift from God and is available to people of any age, not only children. If you are exploring baptism for yourself, we would be delighted to talk with you about this important step in your faith journey.
If you live within our Ministry Area or regularly worship with us, your child can be baptised at any of our churches. If you are unsure whether this applies to you, please get in touch and we will be happy to help.
There is no fee for baptism. While donations are always appreciated and help support the ministry of the church, no one will ever be turned away because of cost.
And when Jesus had been baptized, just as he came up from the water, suddenly the heavens were opened to him and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him. 17 And a voice from heaven said, ‘This is my Son, the Beloved,[a] with whom I am well pleased.’ (Matthew 3:16-17).
If you are interested in exploring baptism, fill out the contact form and one of our team will be in touch.
Promises Made at Baptism
During the service, parents and godparents make promises on behalf of a child. These include affirming faith in God and committing to encourage the child in the Christian life.
We recognise that not everyone involved may feel able to make these promises. Family members who do not share the Christian faith are warmly welcome to attend and participate in the celebration without being asked to make declarations they cannot honestly affirm. We believe these promises should be made sincerely and without pressure.
Godparents
Godparents play an important role in supporting a child’s spiritual journey. They are trusted adults who promise to pray for the child, encourage them in faith, and help them grow in their relationship with God.
We recommend having at least three godparents, although circumstances can vary. Godparents should themselves be baptised and willing to make the promises required during the service. Choosing godparents is an opportunity to reflect on who will be a positive and faithful influence in your child’s life.
Symbols Within the Baptism Service
The Sign of the Cross
The priest marks the candidate’s forehead with the sign of the cross, a symbol of belonging to Christ and being welcomed into the Christian family. Parents and godparents are often invited to share in this act.
Water
Water is the central symbol of baptism. It represents cleansing, renewal, and new life in Christ. Just as water sustains life, baptism points to God’s life-giving presence and the beginning of a new journey of faith.
The Baptism Candle
A candle is presented during the service as a reminder that Jesus is the Light of the World. It symbolises the light of Christ shining in the life of the person being baptised and the calling to reflect that light in the world. Many families choose to relight the candle on baptism anniversaries as a special way of remembering and celebrating the day.
We would be delighted to welcome you and your family and to help you prepare for this special occasion. If you would like to explore baptism further, please contact one of our clergy team. We look forward to walking this journey with you.
If you are interested in exploring baptism, fill out the contact form and one of our team will be in touch.
