Baptism
We are delighted to offer baptism to everyone who wishes to follow Christ and be a member of the Church.
About Baptism
Baptism makes us members of the Church, the worldwide Christian family.
Baptism can happen at any age. For adults and young people, baptism involves a personal commitment to Christian faith. For babies and small children, parents make this commitment on behalf of their child.
The Anglican Church recognises baptisms performed in other Christian churches. Baptism is required for those wishing to receive Holy Communion.
While you may only be baptised once, you can make or renew your faith commitment as an adult in services of confirmation or renewal.
The Promises
When you come for baptism, you will be asked to declare that you believe in God, reject evil, and turn to Christ. The clergy will discuss these commitments with you beforehand.
Godparents make the same promises. Parents and godparents promise to pray for and support the child and their family. It is important for parents to choose godparents who have a Christian commitment, and godparents must be baptised.
Adults being baptised have sponsors who promise to support and pray for them in their journey of faith.
The Service
Baptism usually happens as part of regular worship. Make sure you arrange the date with the clergy well ahead of time.
In baptism, the priest pours water over the candidate's head, symbolising washing, refreshing, and new life. Then the candidate is anointed with oil, as a sign of the Holy Spirit, God's presence with us. The sign of the Cross is a mark that the person now belongs to Christ. A candle is given as a reminder that Jesus is the Light of the World.
Service of Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child
This is an alternative for people who are unsure about baptism for their child. In this service you thank God for your child, and your child is blessed. You may still choose to have your child baptised at a later date. Ask the clergy for advice.
Further Information
If you have any questions, or wish to arrange a baptism, please contact us. This form (in pdf format, 386kb) will tell you the information we require.