Baptism

Baptism Policy 

https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/christenings

Anyone who is resident within the Riverside Parishes is eligible to be baptised in our churches, and anyone living outside the Benefice may be baptised here by arrangement with the Ministry Team

Baptisms are normally held within Sunday morning services of Holy Communion, since our congregations wish to extend a warm welcome to the newly-baptised. However, in special circumstances baptisms can be arranged for a Sunday afternoon.

Baptism is not just for tiny babies - if you feel that this is the right time to become an official member of the Christian faith you can be baptised at any period in your life (the oldest person to be baptised by the previous Vicar was 86!). Parents of small children are asked, to contact the Ministry Team office, arrangements will be made for a Minister to come and visit and meet the child. They will talk through with you the commitment of baptism and the organisation of the service, which can often include your favourite hymns and prayers and participation of family members. 

Older candidates are asked to do some more formal preparation by recommended reading and discussion with the Minister. Baptism marks the beginning of a new life as a Christian, and our church communities give all newly-baptised people a special baptismal candle and certificate and hope that the newly-baptised and their family will come and join us in regular worship.