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Baptisms
Baptism
Baptism is the way a person becomes a member of God’s family, the Church. Jesus told his disciples to preach to people of every nation and to baptise them. One of the disciples, Peter, told those who wanted to join the Church, “Repent and be baptised in the name of the Lord Jesus for the forgiveness of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
People came forward and asked for baptism. They were baptised with water. Then the apostles placed their hands on their heads and thus, we believe, passed to them the gift of God; the Holy Spirit. The people who came and asked to be baptised in this way were, of course, adults. In time people wanted their children to be baptised.
In the Church of England we baptise children and adults. We welcome them all as members of the Church, the Family of God. When adults are baptised they are asked certain questions. In reply they state firmly their belief as Christians.
Baptism of Children
The day when your child is baptised will, I hope, be a very happy one. You will, perhaps, invite your family and friends to join you at the church, and for a party afterwards. It will be a great celebration, a thanksgiving for the birth of your child.
But Baptism is more than a celebration. It is the beginning of your child’s life as a Christian. The time will come when the children will be able to say for themselves that they are Christians. That will be when they are Confirmed.
Download the Baptism Application Form
Please contact the Wardens for all Baptism enquiries.
The Baptism Application Form for St Peter's Church can be downloaded by clicking the big blue 'W' button on the right.
Your part in the baptism service
During the service you will be asked to make statements on behalf of yourself and of your child:
Parents and godparents, the Church receives these children with joy. Today we are trusting God for their growth in faith. Will you pray for them, draw them by your example into the community of faith and walk with them in the way of Christ?
Answer: With the help of God, we will.
In baptism these children begin their journey in faith. You speak for them today. Will you care for them, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ’s Church?
Answer: With the help of God, we will.
In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light. To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him. Therefore I ask: Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?
Answer: I reject them.
Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?
Answer: I renounce them.
Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?
Answer: I repent of them.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
Answer: I turn to Christ.
Do you submit to Christ as Lord?
Answer: I submit to Christ.
Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?
Answer: I come to Christ.