Thanksgiving
We love to celebrate with families and thank God for the precious gift of a child. During a Thanksgiving Service, the child is named and welcomed and prayers and a blessing are said for the child and the family. You may prefer a Thanksgiving Service to a Baptism Service as you may not be ready to make the Baptism promises on behalf of your child or you may wish to allow them to make their own decision when they are older. Please contact us if you would like further information or if you would like to discuss your situation and options.
Baptism
We are delighted that you are thinking about having your child, or yourself, baptised (you can also say christened). St James Church welcomes all who wish to be baptised into the Church of England, regardless of age. There is no fee, although a collection is taken at the end of the service. Donations are welcomed.
In baptism, you as parents are: thanking God for his gift of life; deciding to start your child on the journey of faith; asking for the Church’s support.
For your child (or yourself), baptism: marks the start of a journey of faith; involves turning away from evil and turning towards Christ; becoming a member of the local and worldwide Christian family.
Baptisms at St James’ normally happen within the context of a family service, so that the baptised person can be welcomed by the Church family present, and as members of the local church they will promise to support and pray for you and your child.
The Role of Godparents
Godparents and parents make the same promises on behalf of the child being baptised. Godparents promise to pray and support the child and to help the parents to bring up the child in the Christian faith. It is an important and responsible role and Godparents should be baptised themselves.
Godparents can be family members or friends. However, it is important that you choose people whom you trust, who will take an interest in your child’s spiritual welfare, and who will be in your life for many years to come.
If you require further information or you would like to discuss dates with us please contact us.
Confirmation
Confirmation marks the point in the Christian journey at which you have the opportunity to affirm for yourself the promises made at your baptism by your parents and godparents. This affirmation is confirmed through prayer and the laying on of hands by the bishop. The Church also asks God to give you power through the Holy Spirit to enable you to live in the way of Jesus.
If you are interested in getting confirmed or finding out more please contact us.