The Baptism Service is also known as ‘Christening’. In this service parents thank God for the gift of life, make a decision to start their child on a journey of faith and the Godparents promise help and support. The church also welcomes the child and prays for the family. Being baptised marks the start of a lifelong journey of faith as part of the local and worldwide Christian family.
Baptism Service
Baptism will normally take place during our All-Age Service at 10.00 am. Celebrating your child joining with the family of the Church and we love to celebrate this very special occasion with you In turn we will promise to support and pray for you and your child.
We will make sure you know where to sit and when you need to move. Some parts of the service will be for everyone to join in with, some will be for you and the godparents.
Part of the service will take place at the front of the church, but for the Baptism itself, parents and godparents, sometimes family and friends too, will be asked to gather around the font.
If you would like to enquire about a Baptism please send an email to ku.neergllahnoisnecsa@nimda to make further enquiries or contact the Parish Office using the form on our Contact Page
You may also like to have a look at the Christening section on the Church of England Website.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a Baptism and a Christening?
There is no difference between a Christening service and a Baptism service. Some churches will use the word ‘Baptism’ and some the word ‘Christening’. Children (as well as Adults) are Baptised during a Christening service just as couples are ‘married’ during a ‘Wedding’ service.
Can anyone have a Christening service?
Yes, so long as they have not been Baptised already. The Church of England welcomes all children and families for Christenings – whatever shape that family takes. You do not have to be married to ask for a Christening for your child. You do not have to be an active churchgoer – as parents, you do not even have to have been Baptised yourselves. Everyone is welcome at Church of the Ascension.
What about Godparents?
Godparents are not the people who will care for your child should anything happen to you. Rather, they should be people who will be there for your child and help them think about the bigger questions in life – questions of love, hope and faith.
Every child should have at least three godparents, two of the same sex and at least one of the opposite sex. Parents may be godparents for their own children, providing they have at least one other godparent. Godparents must be baptised themselves and old enough to make some serious promises on behalf of the child.
How much does a Baptism Service cost?
The good news is that a Christening service is free. There may be costs for your family party afterwards, for gifts, or for christening robes, but the church service is free.
Can we arrange a Baptism at a separate time to the Sunday service?
There are opportunities to have a service at a different time, usually on a Sunday, but talk to the Vicar and ask advice about what is possible.
How old should my child be?
You can have your child Christened at any age. There is no upper age limit, but after about the age of seven your child may be able to make the promises for themselves. Talk to the vicar about baptising an older child and how this might differ from an infants Christening service.
What happens in the service?
Baptism water will be blessed and poured on the child’s head (the word ‘baptism’ means ‘to be immersed in water’) and will be signed with the sign of the cross. A candle from the church will be given. Godparents and parents will make promises on behalf of the child, and prayers will be offered for the whole family. There may also be readings and hymns, which you may be able to choose – ask the vicar if you have any special requests.
What exactly is Baptism?
Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives. This first step is a response to God’s love. It is also a celebration, a time to come together with family and friends; remembering that your child is loved by God, is part of a wider community and has a place with God’s people.
