Baptism

Water is close to many of the accounts in the Scriptures. At Creation, the Spirit brooded over the waters. Noah's Ark preserved humanity through the flood. Jacob's Well outside Shechem never ran dry. Moses led the people through the Red Sea to freedom in the Promised Land. The Baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist was the early days of his mission. The encounter with Nicodemus where Jesus speaks of being born of water and Spirit, the encounter with the Samaritan Woman at Jacobs Well and the discussion about living water help us understand baptism. At the crucifixion of Jesus when his side was pierced and out came blood and water. The Vision of Heaven in revelation and the river of the water of life flowing from the throne of God.

Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, bright as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb through the middle of the street of the city. On either side of the river is the tree of life with its twelve kinds of fruit, producing its fruit each month; and the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.  (Revelation 22:1-2)

Baptism is a particular mark of the start of our Christian life. As such it is first and foremost a sign of the journey which expresses our hope and faith in God. So whilst we have no clear idea of what that life will be for us, we celebrate this mark and the sure promise that Christ is with us till the close of the age.

For many Baptism happens as we are infants, and for some, it happens as adults. Clearly, the role of sponsors and Godparents will have a different character, however, the sacramental call of baptism to shine as a light in the world to the glory of God the Father remains the same.

Baptism is a once-only sacrament so we do not re-baptise people who have been validly baptised in another denomination, as that would be a breach of our faith in One God, One Church and One Baptism, which is part of our central belief.

Baptism is sometimes called Christening. They are the same thing, just different names.

Arrange a Baptism for you or your child. Approach any of our clergy in person or by phone or email or use the contact on this page.

Downloading the Baptism Form will help you (and us). This is the basic information we need. Download it, print it out and bring it with you when you come to make the arrangements.

Christening is a great privilege in ministry as a journey sacrament and an invitation to life and light, following in the footsteps of Jesus aware of the sacredness of all of life.

Baptism is a sacrament of grace, so be assured that there is no fee for a Baptism, though many will normally want to make a donation as a thank offering, according to their ability.