Application for Baptism (Christening) 

Please read this carefully

What Baptism is not:

Baptism is not a naming ceremony. Your child already has his/her name.

Baptism is not a way of getting your child into heaven.

Baptism will not make any difference to your child's behaviour/health/etc.

Baptism is not even a service of thanksgiving to God for your child. There is such a service available and we can arrange that if you wish.

So what is Baptism?

Baptism is about becoming a member of the Church. In the case of babies, baptism is carried out on the strength of the faith of the parents and the godparents. You will be promising to "draw him/her by your example into the community of faith." and to "help him / her to take their place within the life and worship of Christ's Church." This means that you as parents will be firmly rooted within the family of the church yourselves, if your child's baptism is to be meaningful.

 In the baptism service you will be asked a number of questions about your own faith and about how you intend to bring up your child as a Christian. These questions are listed below. Read them now and think carefully about them, and only go ahead with your child's baptism if you can answer them openly and honestly before God: 

Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?
I reject them.
Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?
I renounce them.
Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?
I repent of them. 

Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
I turn to Christ.
Do you submit to Christ as Lord?
I submit to Christ.
Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?
I come to Christ.

If you feel you can give these answers honestly, and intend to set your child an example of Christian discipleship, then please complete the attached form CLICK HERE.

The Next Stage:

When you have completed the form, give our Priest, Revd Gary Best, a ring on 01728 685550 to arrange a convenient time when the two of you (both parents, please, if both are making the declarations)  to come to the Rectory for half an hour while we discuss the service and its implications.   If your babysitting arrangements fall through, give me a ring and we will fix up an alternative time. Please bring the attached form to the interview.

Please also be aware that all eight parishes are part of the Mid Loes Benefice and the baptism could take place anywhere in the benefice. If you are keen that the the baptism takes place in your own parish church, that will be possible, but may limit available dates.