Baptism is a wonderful celebration of new beginnings. Christians believe that through baptism God offers his gift of love without limit. 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.

Baptism is what Christians call a 'sacrament'. That means it is a visible sign of God's love, a genuine way in which God touches and changes our lives.

At Christ Church, baptisms take place on the first Sunday of each month at 12.00 noon. We welcome up to five families at each service, and we prefer three Godparents - all must themselves be baptized and, prefereably at least one be a confirmed member of the church. We tend to find that two of the Godparents are of the same sex of the child and one of the opposite sex, but these are only traditions rather than rules! But take care to choose people who will take an active interest in your child's spiritual growth and welfare and who will pray for you and your child. In adult baptism, those being baptised often choose sponsors to support them at their service of Baptism. 

Anyone with a connection with Christ Church is welcome to bring their children for baptism. Please make arrangements through the Marriage and Baptism Office 7-8 on Tuesday evenings at Christ Church Parish Centre.

Fees the Baptism service is always free, though of course you are very welcome to make a donation.

What next? ... as well as a crèche, Christ Church welcomes youngsters at its Junior Church, helping young folk to grow in their faith and enjoy the friendship and fellowship of the wider Church family. Christ Church prepares people young and old for Confirmation and for Admission to Communion before Confirmation.

Acess: the church and Parish Centre are accessible by wheeled transport, and of course push chairs and wheelchairs are welcome. The access ramp to the church is through the Parish Centre main hall. The parish centre has fully accessible toilet facilities, and there is an induction loop on the ground floor of the church and also in the Parish Centre.  You may have to organise your own BSL or Makaton signer, although Harrogate Deaf Church may be a point of contact.  Please ask if you have any special requirements or questions.

For more information, bookings and any queries, please contact the Parish Clerk at the Parish Office on Tuesdays between 7 and 8 pm (01423 530750 or  email: christchurch01@btconnect.com).