Baptism

Start an amazing journey……

What is Baptism?

Baptism, or Christening, is when you are baptised with water. It’s the start of a journey of faith and a special day for friends and family. In Baptism, through faith in Christ and the gift of the Holy Spirit, you belong to God’s family. God adopts you as His child, and you become a citizen and heir in the Kingdom of God. 

Little one sweetly looks up at the water being poured on her for Baptism

Two things are required: first, turning away from sin (wrongdoing), and second, faith – in which we turn to Jesus Christ as Saviour and Lord, obey Him and trust in the promises of God.

Christening of babies and children is a sign of God’s promise that they are embraced in the community of Christ’s church. Parents who present their children for Baptism promise to raise them to know and love God in the hope that they will one day make their own commitment of faith to Jesus.

As well as a Christening, there is a special service, Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child. This is a lovely time when you can be with friends and family, ask for God’s blessing and pray for your baby. It’s possible to have this service instead of a Christening if you decide now isn’t the right time to have your child Baptised.

Who can be Baptised?

Anyone! If you live in Marston or Lidlington or have connections to the Church here, we would be delighted to talk to you. As parents, you don’t have to be baptised yourself to bring your child for Christening.  And you don’t have to be a baby – Baptism is for anyone of any age who wants to begin or take the next step on their faith journey.

Journey to Baptism

The first step on your Christening or Baptism Journey with St Mary’s is to come along to one of our Services on Sunday and for us to have a chat afterwards. The Baptism Journey will involve home visits, coming to a few services, and a time of preparation.

The 9.30 am Family Service is relaxed and informal; breastfeeding Mums are welcome, and we have a toilet and baby changing station.

Christenings take place at 12.00 midday on the third Sunday of every month.

How can I find out more?

Please contact us via the Contacts Page

Find out more about Christenings and Baptisms here: churchofenglandchristenings.org

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