Introduction
“Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God's love. For all involved, particularly the candidates but also parents, godparents and sponsors, it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ, making serious promises and declaring the faith. The wider community of the local church and friends welcome the new Christian, promising support and prayer for the future. Hearing and doing these things provides an opportunity to remember our own baptism and reflect on the progress made on that journey, which is now to be shared with this new member of the Church.
The service paints many vivid pictures of what happens on the Christian way. There is the sign of the cross, the badge of faith in the Christian journey, which reminds us of Christ's death for us. Our 'drowning' in the water of baptism, where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life, unites us to Christ's dying and rising, a picture that can be brought home vividly by the way the baptism is administered. Water is also a sign of new life, as we are born again by water and the Spirit. This reminds us of Jesus' baptism. And as a sign of that new life, there may be a lighted candle, a picture of the light of Christ conquering the darkness of evil. Everyone who is baptized walks in that light for the rest of their lives.” (Common Worship,2000).
Christenings | The Church of England
The service paints many vivid pictures of what happens on the Christian way. There is the sign of the cross, the badge of faith in the Christian journey, which reminds us of Christ's death for us. Our 'drowning' in the water of baptism, where we believe we die to sin and are raised to new life, unites us to Christ's dying and rising, a picture that can be brought home vividly by the way the baptism is administered. Water is also a sign of new life, as we are born again by water and the Spirit. This reminds us of Jesus' baptism. And as a sign of that new life, there may be a lighted candle, a picture of the light of Christ conquering the darkness of evil. Everyone who is baptized walks in that light for the rest of their lives.” (Common Worship,2000).
Christenings | The Church of England
The Baptism Service
Book of Common Prayer Public Baptism of Infants | The Church of England
Common Worship 2000Holy Baptism | The Church of England
Common Worship 2000Holy Baptism | The Church of England
About Baptism
Baptism is available to anyone residing in the parish of Altofts or entered on the church electoral roll. Baptisms for those who are neither resident in the parish or on the church electoral roll are at the discretion of the Vicar. To find out which parish you reside in please visit: A Church Near You
Baptisms take place within the Sunday Mass and monthly on a Sunday at 1300hrs.
Baptisms take place within the Sunday Mass and monthly on a Sunday at 1300hrs.
Next Steps
If you would like to book a baptism, please come to one of our services to meet with our Vicar.