Baptism

 

The start of a journey

Baptism, also known as Christening, is the first step on a lifelong journey of faith.   It means that your child becomes a member of God’s family, the Church.  The church, here in our community, is part of the worldwide church.

 

The symbols used in the service, the sign of the cross, water and a lighted candle focus on new life, belonging to God and what it means to live in the world as a Christian, a follower of Jesus.

 

Why do we baptise?

Jesus himself was baptised as an adult.  It was the start of his public ministry.

 

Why is water used?

In baptism, water is used as a symbolic wash.  It  represents God’s forgiveness washing away all that is selfish within us.  It reminds us that we all need God’s grace and forgiveness, even children, because left to ourselves we leave God out of our lives.  

 

What is a Christian?

Being a Christian isn’t about being someone who is into religion, but about being on a life long journey with God. The God who created us, who loves us completely, who has shown us what he is like in the person of Jesus. Baptism is the first step on this journey.

 

Parents and Godparents

Parents and Godparents have a very important role to play in a child’s journey of faith. The promises you will make in the service are only the start of this process.  As a parent or Godparent you will:

• Promise to pray for the child; 

• Draw them by your example into the community of faith; and

• Promise to walk with them in the way of Christ.

It will be up to you to provide opportunities for your child to grow in faith and they will need your support and encouragement in this.

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Traditionally there are three Godparents,

two of the same sex as the child, and one of the opposite sex.

Godparents MUST be baptised themselves and, ideally, will also have been confirmed.

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Baptism at St.Wulstan’s

During the Vacancy if you are interested in having your child baptised, or in being baptised yourself, please speak with one of the churchwardens who will advise you further on how this might be arranged.

 

After baptism – what next?

During the service you will make important promises about how you will help your child to grow in their faith and how you will accompany them on the journey.  What does that mean?  How does that work in practical terms?

 

Through baptism, your child is welcomed into the Church family. For your child to grow in faith, and to enable you to keep the promises you have made for them, it is vital that you find a church you are comfortable to attend on a regular basis to discover more about God. Attending the monthly Family Praise services is a great place to start that journey!

 

Prayer

At the Baptism service you commit to praying for your child.

 

Prayer is a conversation with God.  If you’re not sure what to say, a good place to start might be the Lord’s prayer. Pray it slowly, and as you pray the words think about what each phrase means.

 

You may also want to use your own words. The following format may be helpful;

 

• I am thankful for......

• I worry about....

• I hope for....

 

These can also be applied to yourself or even to the world.  What do you hope for deep in your heart?  In a quiet moment, offer these things to God.

 

You may also want to pray with your child.  It’s never too soon to start.  These simple ideas may be helpful;

 

‘God bless.....’  add the names of family and friends.

 

‘Thank you for....’  anything good that has happened in your day.

 

Pray for family or friends who are in need.

 

As you journey with your child, allow yourself the time to share in their wonder at the world.  There’s nothing like their joy at the sight of a frosty spider’s web or a muddy puddle that just needs to be splashed in! Join in the fun and thank God for the moment.

 

 

Your Church Wedding

 

All you need to know about planning your big day and getting married in church can be found here