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GETTING BAPTISED AT CLAINES
We are delighted that you may be considering having your child baptised at Claines Church. In Baptism, we thank God for his gift of life and publicly acknowledge his love. In the Church of England it is common to baptise young children; this is sometimes known, outside the church, as christening. You can of course be baptised as an adult.
Below are some frequently asked questions that may help you.
You can download an application form for Baptism at Claines here.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT BAPTISM
What's the difference between a baptism and a christening?
What is the right age for baptism?
Can we hold the service of baptism in Claines Church?
Q. What's the difference between a baptism and a christening?
A. None, they are just different words for the same thing.
Q. When can we have a baptism?
A. Baptisms usually take place on a Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. where several families may be having their children baptised. Baptism can also take place during the Morning service as a public declaration that your child has become part of the church family. At this service the church congregation are there to support you and welcome your child. Other arrangements can sometimes be made especially for the baptism of whole families including adults.
Q. What is the right age for baptism?
A. Baptism can take place at any age. As an adult you make a decision to follow the Christian life for yourself, but as a child that decision is made by parents, and they, together with the godparents, commit themselves to bringing the child up as a Christian. You can only be baptised as a Christian once, but if you have been dedicated as a young child you may be baptised later on. Full membership of the church is through Confirmation where the promises made at baptism are confirmed in front of the Bishop.
Q. Can we hold the service of baptism in Claines Church?
A. If you live within the Parish of Claines or attend worship in Claines Church you can hold a baptism in the church. You may also be able to hold a baptism in the church if you have other qualifying connections with the church or parish.
A. Baptism is a free gift of God, so there is no charge for a baptism service.
Churchwardens: warden@clainesfriends.org.uk
