Baptism or Christening service
Baptism is the sign that someone belongs to Christ, and that is why baptism is sometimes known as Christening. Many people choose to have their children baptised shortly after they are born, as a sign that they want to bring the child up to follow Jesus. However, baptism is not just for children - adults can also be baptised if they have not been baptised previously. For adults it is a way for them to express their own faith in God and their desire to follow Jesus.
During a baptism the individual is welcomed into the Church family. When an infant is baptised the parents and Godparents make promises on behalf of the baby, and they look forward to the day when their declarations become real for the child.
The promises that are made are reproduced below - do take a look at these and think about what it might mean for you to make these promises for yourself or for your child or Godchild.
Extracts from the Baptism Service
At the presentation of the candidates, the following words are used:
Faith is the gift of God to his people.
In baptism the Lord is adding to our number
those whom he is calling.
The congregation are then asked:
People of God, will you welcome these children/candidates and uphold them in their new life in Christ?
With the help of God, we will.
At the baptism of children, the president then says to the parents and godparents:
Parents and godparents, the Church receives these children with joy. Today we are trusting God for their growth in faith. Will you pray for them, draw them by your example into the community of faith and walk with them in the way of Christ?
With the help of God, we will.
In baptism these children begin their journey in faith. You speak for them today. Will you care for them, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ’s Church?
With the help of God, we will.
Some questions are then directed to the candidates, parents and Godparents:
In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light.
To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him.
Therefore I ask: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.
A Baptism service would normally be within our usual Sunday morning service. If you are interested in thinking about this more, then please do contact us, and come along to our Baptism Preparation Class. The dates for this class should be found in the Latest News section of our website.
(Extracts from the Baptism service taken from Common Worship, (c) The Archbishop’s Council of the Church of England, 2000-2006)