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Baptism
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Loving parents always want the best for their children. Part of that expression
of love, for some people, is to have a formal ceremony where the child is baptised.
Many parents these days, due to their lack of information and experience of
Christianity, feel unable to make the necessary promises on their child’s behalf.
However, in their recognition that we are all spiritual beings, they do want to
bring their child for God’s blessing, and to give thanks for the new addition to
their family. Such ceremonies are carried out by the church and this page sets out
the options that are available to you and your family.
Baptism
Baptisms usually happen on the third Sunday of each month at All Saints. This
ceremony takes place during a community service and has traditionally signified
the occasion when the baptised person is united with Christ and with Christ’s
people. In baptism they become members of the Christian family. It is seen as
the beginning of a life journey and that the child will be given the opportunity
to explore and understand the faith of their Baptism as they grow. Because of this,
private Baptisms are only conducted in exceptional circumstances.
Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child
This service provides the opportunity for parents and families to give thanks for
the birth or adoption of a child and to offer prayer for family life. This also
takes place during a community service recognising the importance a community
has in educating, protecting and encouraging children.
Naming Ceremony
This service incorporates the formal naming of a child and is very similar to,
and can be incorporated into, the Thanksgiving Service.
Prayers for the Loss of a Child
Sadly, not all pregnancies have a happy outcome. This service gives a place for
parents to acknowledge their loss before God, to seek comfort, and to regain
peace and hope for the future. Sometimes, due to the shock and circumstances,
things were not done at the time that the parents may now wish to happen, such
as naming the child. It does not matter how long ago this was. (You may also
wish to note the information about the Blue Christmas Service in December.)
For Adults
Baptism is, of course, also readily available to adults.
Adults who are baptised may also now wish to be Confirmed. All inquiries are
welcome.
For any questions or inquiries about any item on this page please ring The Rev.
Diana Court on 480 7260.
Statement of Belief
To give you a taste of our beliefs and attitudes, we include a statement of
belief from one of our Baptism services:
We believe in God
who was there
at the secret, quiet moments of conception,
when the "self" that is each of us was created,
and a thousand other possibilities turned away.
We believe in God
who sang a murmuring song to us
in the nurturing closeness of the womb;
who watched with joy
as we grew and moved and became strong
and aware and ready for birth.
We believe in God who does not leave us
even in our darkness
when we have lost the way home.
God calls us again and again
to new adventures
new stairs to climb
new questions to ask
new people to love.
Our God is bread and sunshine,
and parties,
and most beautifully in our children.
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