Baptism

Baptism is a Sacrament of the Church, which is a sign of God’s grace and mercy to us his children.  It was instituted by our Lord Jesus himself with his baptism in the River Jordan.  It also marks that journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives.

For all involved, particularly the candidates but also parents, godparents and sponsors, it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ, making promises, declaring the faith with support and prayer for the future.

Baptism of children also provides an opportunity for the rest of us to also remember our own baptism and reflect on the progress made on our own journey, which is shared with the candidate.

The service paints many pictures of what happens in the Christian way. There is the sign of the cross, the badge of faith in the Christian journey, which reminds us of Christ’s death for us. The water of baptism, where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life, unites us to Christ’s dying and rising, a picture that can be brought home by the way the baptism is administered.

You can find out more about Baptism at the Church of England’s website

Baptisms are usually administered after the Sunday Mass at 12:30,and with a second slot, if necessary, at 1:15pm. If you are a member of, or connected to St Christopher’s congregation, you may request the Baptism to take place during the Sunday Mass.

If you are desirous of Baptism and you are (as the Book of Common Prayer puts it) of “Riper Years” i.e. an adult, you will need to :

First of all, make contact with Fr. Martin

Adult candidates are expected to have a basic grasp of the Christian faith, and that desire to be a follower of Christ and a member of His Church. To this end, there are Baptism and Confirmation preparation courses held from time to time.

To be a Godparent for a child, you must be baptised and at least one of the Godparents must also be confirmed. 

Take the next step in planning your baptism at St. Christopher’s Church.

Schedule an appointment by calling us at 01253 697937.

We look forward to helping you make the necessary arrangements for this special occasion.