Arranging a Baptism in the Fellside Parishes

Baptism (or Christening, they're the same) is an important occasion for families and children and we are always pleased to welcome you to your parish church. Please contact the clergy if you would like further details. The best time to do this is at the main Sunday service, when we can discuss dates and let you have an Application Pack. This contains information to pass on to the Godparents and notes to help you plan for this significant event, the Baptism of your child into God's family.

We are always pleased to discuss the baptism of adults, in the context of preparation for Confirmation into the full membership of the Church of England. Baptism is a Sacrament recognised by the whole of the Christian Church; the Church of England teaches that Baptism is a never-to-be-repeated event and 're-baptism' is not possible in any circumstances.

The Preface to Holy Baptism in Common Worship:

¶ Pastoral Introduction

This may be read by those present before the service begins.

Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God's love. For all involved, particularly the candidates but also parents, godparents and sponsors, it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ, making serious promises and declaring the faith. The wider community of the local church and friends welcome the new Christian, promising support and prayer for the future. Hearing and doing these things provides an opportunity to remember our own baptism and reflect on the progress made on that journey, which is now to be shared with this new member of the Church.

The service paints many vivid pictures of what happens on the Christian way. There is the sign of the cross, the badge of faith in the Christian journey, which reminds us of Christ's death for us. Our 'drowning' in the water of baptism, where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life, unites us to Christ's dying and rising, a picture that can be brought home vividly by the way the baptism is administered. Water is also a sign of new life, as we are born again by water and the Spirit. This reminds us of Jesus' baptism. And as a sign of that new life, there may be a lighted candle, a picture of the light of Christ conquering the darkness of evil. Everyone who is baptized walks in that light for the rest of their lives.

As you pray for the candidates, picture them with yourself and the whole Church throughout the ages, journeying into the fullness of God's love.

Jesus said, 'I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.'

John 10.10

You will find further information on the Church of England's official site. Click here to see.