Baptisms

Your child’s baptism is a very important occasion both for the Church and for your family, and one that we, at St. Michael’s, take very seriously. In baptism we join God’s Family, the Church and promise to follow Christ’s teaching and join in the regular worship of the Church. God promises us that He will forgive us our sins and be there for us in every part of our lives. When we have a baby baptised, we are saying that our greatest wish for them would be for them to grow up knowing God's love in Jesus for themselves and to follow him throughout their lives. We hope your baby's baptism will be a wonderful and memorable occasion and that it will mark the beginning of a long and happy association with this church.

What is baptism?

In baptism, you as parents are: thanking God for his gift of life, deciding to start your child on the journey of faith and asking for the Church's support. For your child, baptism: marks the start of a journey of faith, which involves turning away from the darkness of self-centredness, turning towards Christ and becoming a member of the local and worldwide Christian family. Baptism is a 'sacrament': a visible sign of God's love. In baptism, we are thanking God for his gift of life and publicly acknowledging his love. We are acknowledging that we all need to turn away from the darkness of evil and to make a new start with God.

Is there a difference between a baptism and a christening?

No, they are just different words for the same thing.

What is the right age for baptism?

Baptism can happen at any age. What matters is that those concerned believe it is right to ask for baptism. Although it often babies who are baptised, there is no age limit. Older children and adults are normally baptised as part of their preparation for confirmation.

Can I have my child baptised at St Michael’s?
The Church of England is organised into parishes, and any child who lives in the parish may be baptised. This is because baptism is the start of life as a Christian and it is natural to attend one’s local parish church so that your child can be welcomed and grow in your local church family. An exception to this is where the child’s parents are already members of another congregation.

When does the Baptism service take place?

At St Michael’s baptism services are usually held on the first and third Sundays of the month at 12 noon . On some occasions baptism will take place during the main Sunday service.

What does it cost?

The baptism service is free. At St Michael’s we do not charge for an initial certificate or an administration fee. However, if you would like to make a donation towards the work of the church there will be an offertory plate available on the day of the service.

What is a godparent?

Godparents make the same promises on behalf of the child being baptised as parents. Godparents promise to pray and support the child and to help the parents to bring up the child in the Christian faith. It is an important and responsible role.

How many godparents should I have?

The tradition is to have three: two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite sex. A larger number is permissible, and it is also possible for there to be fewer.

Who should I choose to be a godparent?

Godparents can be family members or friends. However, it is important that you choose people who will take an interest in your child's spiritual welfare and who will pray for you and your child. They should be baptised themselves. Parents can also be godparents. If you need further advice please ask us.

What happens if one of the godparents can’t come to the Baptism?

Of course, they will make every effort to come if they possibly can but sometimes this is impossible.  This doesn’t stop them from being a godparent.

Do we have to attend preparation?

We normally ask both parents to attend a Baptism Preparation session, during which the service and your part in it will be fully explained. We will also give you practical information such as where you sit, when to stand up and move to the font etc. Godparents are also warmly welcomed to this session but we appreciate that they may not live locally and so it will not always be possible for them to attend. 

After the Baptism Service, you will receive a Baptism Certificate.  We are happy to offer any further help and advice you may require in order for you to fulfil the promises that you have made on your own behalf and on behalf of your child. 

Does is matter if we’re not married?

No, God loves all children and we acknowledge that children may be brought up in the context of a stable relationship where the parents are not married.

What happens after the baptism?

Baptism marks a new start for your child, as a member of the worldwide Christian community. In turn, the Church welcomes you and your child and promises to support you in bringing the child up in the faith.

Are there any alternatives to baptism?

If you do not feel you would be happy making the statements and promises involved in baptism, but would still like a service to say Thank You for your child then you might want to consider a Service of Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child. In this service, you thank God for the gift of your child and the child is blessed. You do not make the same promises as in the Baptism Service. If you choose to have a Thanksgiving, you may also have a Baptism Service for your child at a later date. If you would like to find out more about this option please contact the vicar

What do we need to do now?

If you've any questions at all about baptism or about a Service of Thanksgiving or would like to book a date, then please t elephone Revd Morag Finch on 01708 741084.