Baptism
(Christening) or Naming and Thanksgiving of Children
Jesus said "Let the little children come to me, and do
not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom
of heaven belongs." Matthew Chapter 19 verse 14
St Paul’s welcomes all who live in the parish or who attend the church
to bring their children for Baptism, (also known as
Christening) or for a Thanksgiving and Naming Service.
Baptism is a sacrament and a sacrament is an outward sign
of something real inside. Baptism is a sign of God’s
unconditional love for us.
At a baptism or christening the child is:
• signed with the cross using oil that has been
blessed for that purpose by the Bishop.
• sprinkled with water three times in the name of God
the Father, God the Son and God the Holy Spirit
• given a candle, lit from the Easter candle, as a
symbol of the Light of Christ which shines in our world.
Baptism is usually on the fourth Sunday of the month at
12.15pm, when there may be up to four families bringing
children. It may also take place at the usual Sunday
10.30am Service.
If you are a parent you are invited to attend church and
also to come to a Preparation Evening. On this evening we
go through the promises that you and the godparents will
make on your own behalf and on behalf of the child. You
will be introduced to the service, and what will happen on
the day.
If you would rather wait for your children to be able to
make the decision about baptism later for themselves or if
you feel you are not ready to make the promises involved in
Baptism, why not have a special service of Thanksgiving and
Naming? Your child will be given a Gospel, presented for
Naming and Blessing, and may have supporting friends and
family as Sponsors.
To ask about a Baptism or Naming and Thanksgiving, please
telephone or email to make an appointment.
St Paul’s Church looks forward to welcoming you and
your children.
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