Can anyone have a christening service?
Yes, so long as they have not been baptised already. We welcome all babies, children and families for christenings – whatever shape that family takes. You do not have to be married or have been a regular churchgoer – as a parent, you do not even have to have been baptised yourself – though you could be.
Do we have to live in the parish where we would like our child to be christened?
Normally you would have your child christened in your local parish church. In some cases, such as where you have a family connection with a particular church, it may be possible to have your child christened in a church outside of your parish but you should always seek the blessing of your own parish priest before approaching the vicar of another parish.
What is the difference between a baptism and a christening?
There is no difference between a christening service and a baptism service. Some churches will use the word ‘baptism’ and some the word ‘christening’. Babies are baptised during a christening service just as couples are ‘married’ during a ‘wedding’ service.
How do I arrange a christening?
Contact our PCC secretary Chris Pressick on 01287 641068 or email chris7773p@gmail.com
How old should my child be?
You can have your baby or child christened at any age. There is no upper age limit, but there will come a time when your child will be able to make the promises for themselves. Talk to us about baptizing an older child and how this might differ from a baby’s christening service.
What if one or both parents aren’t christened?
You can have your child baptised at a christening regardless of whether or not you, the parents, are baptised. It is only the godparents who are required to be baptised, (so the only time a parent would have to be baptised is if they were also acting as a godparent).
How many godparents should I choose?
You can have as many as you wish, but every child should usually have at least three, two of the same sex and at least one of the opposite sex to the child. Parents may be godparents for their own children, providing they have at least one other godparent.
What is the role of a godparent?
Godparents are some of the most important people at a christening. Their main roles are:-
- To be there for the child to talk to about the bigger questions of life.
- Praying for the child through the ups and downs of their faith journey
- Showing them how to make good choices in life, for themselves and for others
- Helping them to learn more about the Christian faith, through their church and in other ways.
Does being a godparent mean I become a legal guardian as well?
No. Godparents are not the people who will care for the child should anything happen to the parents. Arrangements for this would normally be made by a Will.
What happens in the service?
Click here for the text of the service
How much does a christening service cost?
The good news is that a christening service is free. However you are welcome to make a donation towards the work and ministry of the church.
Why is a christening an ‘amazing journey’?
A christening marks the start of a lifetime of discovery about the Christian faith and how life-changing that can be. It’s a journey of surprises, challenges and adventure. And through it all, God is always with us.
Anything else…
If you have a question about christenings that we have not answered in this section please contact our PCC secretary Chris Pressick on 01287 641068 or email chris7773p@gmail.com