Baptism of Children
About Baptism
We are delighted that you wish to bring your child to be baptised at St Bartholomew's Church.
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If you are not a regular churchgoer then kindly accept our invitation to join us at the Sung Eucharist on Sunday Morning at 10am. Families often find this to be very helpful as you will meet many of the people, both clergy and lay people, who will assist you in bringing your child to baptism and support you and your child within the Church. This will also give you an insight into what happens during the Eucharist and will assist in the preparations for baptism. During the 10am Sung Eucharist, we have a safe, well respected and fun crèche for children aged 0 – 3 years as well as a lively and thriving junior church for ages 4 – 11 years. All children are welcome.
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As you begin to come to Church, we can make dates for preparation visits, and introduce you to people who will support you before and after the baptism of your child. Preparation for baptism usually includes one or two visits by members of our church, usually the priest who will take the baptism service.
Godparents
Godparents are not simply supportive family friends; they are among the most important people at a baptism. They make big promises to encourage their godchild to grow in faith and commit to helping them understand how to live their life in a Christian way. Alongside the parents, godparents are there to talk to their godchild about life’s bigger questions and to encourage Christian values.
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During the baptism, they will also promise to pray for their godchild, help them learn more about the Christian faith and will be asked to declare their own commitment to following Jesus. Because of this, Godparents must be baptised before they can take on this special role; ideally, they would also be confirmed, and be fully practising in their faith.
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Church of England law (known as canon law) allows for three godparents of either sex to be appointed, but four are also permitted.
Baptism Dates
The baptism may form part of the Sunday morning worship of the church or it might be at a special Baptism Service. We would expect that families worshipping regularly at St Bartholomew’s will want their child baptised in the 10am Sunday Sung Eucharist, but for most families, the Baptism Service will be the most appropriate occasion.
The Baptism Services are at midday and take place several times a year. It is common for there to be more than one family at this service—baptism is a public act of worship, and we do not usually provide “private” baptisms, but it's best to get in touch to discuss potential dates before you make plans for your baptism celebrations.
Confirmation and Adult Baptism
Confirmation is for adults and older children who wish to grow in faith and affirm the commitment made at their baptism. Classes are arranged to explore our faith before confirmation can take place. It is expected that adults wishing to be baptised will also prepare for confirmation. Please get in touch to start a discussion about this. We are happy to answer any of your questions.