Baptisms

In the baptism - or christening - of a child, you’re thanking God for his gift of life, deciding to start your child on the journey of faith and asking for the Church's support.

The baptism of children is also called ‘christening’ because at baptism the parents and godparents make promises about their own faith in Jesus Christ, and their commitment to bring up their child to know Jesus for themselves. For those who want to thank God for the birth of their child, but don’t feel able to make the baptism promises, churches also offer a service of dedication and thanksgiving.

Baptisms and dedications are often part of a regular service, but it’s also possible for them to take place outside the regular services.

Before a baptism the church minister or families worker will usually arrange to visit you and your children in your home. They will explain what will happen at the service, the promises you are going to be making and give you the chance to ask any questions you might have.

For further information visit the Church of England website