Baptism: frequently asked questions

Here are some answers to commonly asked questions. Feel free to contact us if there are any further questions that you would like to ask or come along to our next Baptism Preparation evening.   Q. What is the difference between Baptism and Christening? A. There is no difference. They are just different words for the same thing. Q. Can we have a private service of baptism? A. There is a great deal to be said for having the baptisms during the church's main service on Sunday mornings. In baptism, you are making a public declaration that you or your child have become part of the church family. It is important that the church congregation is there to support you and welcome your child. Q. What is the right age for baptism? A. Baptism can happen at any age. What matters is that those concerned believe it is right to ask for baptism. You can only be baptised once, but there are ways of renewing your commitment publicly as an adult and we would be happy to discuss those options with you. Q.  I'm not a regular churchgoer yet. Can I still have my child baptised? A. Yes. The Church believes that God's love is available to all, regardless of their background and each church in the Church of England has a duty to baptise all those who desire it. The statements of faith that are asked during the baptism service are demanding and so we ask adults who want to bring children for baptism to be part of the regular congregation for six months and to complete an Alpha course before we set a date for baptism. If you think that the promises you are being asked to make in baptism are not something you can, in all integrity and honesty, promise to do, then we would be very happy to offer a Thanksgiving service instead of Baptism. Q. What does it cost? A. Both thanksgiving and baptism services are free.