St Martin's Church,
Stamford Baron
Registered Charity Number 1217236
Holy Baptism
Welcome!
We are very pleased you are considering Baptism for your child. You and your child are very precious to God and we look forward to welcoming you. This page has been devised as a guide for you and we hope it will answer any questions you may have.
What is Baptism?
Baptism is a visible sign of God’s love to us, a special sacrament. At Baptism we give thanks for the life of your child, and a public declaration is made of your commitment to raise your child as a Christian.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Christening the same as a Baptism?
Yes. They are different words for the same ceremony.
I and/or my partner have not been Baptized does this matter?
No. Although it may be something you would like to consider.
Do all the godparents need to be Baptized?
Yes. The Church requires that all godparents are Baptized. If however they are not Baptized but are able to make the declarations to support your child on their Christian journey, they can be a ‘Supporter’ and will receive a certificate for this. It may be that they would like to consider Baptism for themselves, if so their local church would be happy to assist them in this.
I don’t go to church. Can I have my child Baptized?
Yes. Although as Baptism appears important to you and you commit to supporting your child to grow in the Christian faith it may be something that you would like to explore further.
How many godparents should my child have?
It is traditional to have three, but you may have between two and four, two being of the same sex as the child to be Baptized. Baptized parents are also able to be godparents to their own child, provided they appoint one other as well.
How much does it cost?
Baptism is part of our Church life and there is no fee. There will be a voluntary collection plate at the service. Some parents like to make a gift for the occasion, if you decide this is something you would like to do and are eligible for Gift Aid this would be appreciated. Envelopes are available for this.
I have read this booklet and am not sure I am ready to make the commitment of Baptism for my child. Is there an alternative?
Yes. A service of Thanksgiving gives thanks for the life of your child and offers a blessing for them.
Can we have a private service?
Baptism will normally take place during the Sunday morning service. Whilst you may be the only family at that time, you might also share the service with one or two other families and you will be welcomed into The Church together.
Can my child choose to be Baptized again when they are older?
No. Baptism is recognised across most Christian denominations as a ‘once for all time’ ceremony. They may however at times choose to renew their baptismal vows and make their own public declaration of faith at Confirmation. Please speak with us if you would like further information about Confirmation.
The Baptism Service
Our Welcomers invite everyone to take a seat in the Church at the beginning of the service. At the right time the Priest or other minister will invite parents, godparents and those to be Baptized to the font, which contains the water for Baptism.
If your child is not old enough to make promises on their own behalf you and the godparents will be asked to make promises declaring your Christian faith and commitment to helping your child grow in their Christian journey.
You make declarations rejecting evil and those things which draw you away from God. You repent of your sins and turn to Christ, the light of the world.
The Candle
The large Easter candle is lit reminding us of Christ’s death and resurrection, that Christ is the light of the world and is with us always. Your child’s baptismal candle will later be lit from this candle signifying the light of Christ in their life.
The Sign of the Cross
The sign of the cross using Holy Oil will be made on your child's forehead, claiming them for Christ.
The Water
The water is prayed over and blessed and is gently poured over your child’s head as a sign of being washed free from sin and of starting a new life in Christ.
Prayers
Prayers are said for your child, for you and for the godparents to protect, strengthen and encourage you all on your journey of faith.
The Welcome
Your child is then welcomed fully into the Church family and will usually receive a round of applause! Holy Communion normally follows: do bring your child for a blessing at this time.
The Baptism of Jesus
Jesus came from Nazareth in Galilee and was Baptized by John in the Jordan. Just as Jesus was coming up out of the water...the Spirit descended on him like a dove. And a voice came from heaven saying: ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased.’ The Bible: Mark Chapter 1 verses 9-11
In this Gospel reading we see how Jesus, God’s own son, by honouring God and being Baptized causes God to declare ‘You are my Son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased’. Jesus came to show us the way and in following him in being Baptized and raised into a new life in Christ we can be certain God declares to your child at Baptism “You are my daughter/son, whom I love; with you I am well pleased”. How wonderful is that!
Prayer
God knows and loves each one of us and is always ready to hear our prayers and to reach out and journey with us.
May God guide and bless you and your family as you explore and prepare for Baptism. Amen