Baptism

About Baptism

"Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs. Whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will never enter it. He took them up in his arms, laid his hands on them, and blessed them."

Mark Chapter 10: Versus 13-16

We are delighted that you wish to bring your child to be baptised at St Bartholomew's Church. 

If you are not a regular churchgoer then kindly accept our invitation to join us at the Sung Eucharist on Sunday Morning at 10am. Families often find this to be very helpful as you will meet many of the people, both clergy and lay people, who will assist you in bringing your child to baptism and support you and your child within the Church. This will also give you an insight into what happens during the Eucharist and will assist in the preparations for baptism. During the 10am Sung Eucharist, we have a safe, well respected and fun crèche for children aged 0 – 3 years as well as a lively and thriving junior church for ages 4 – 11 years. All children are welcome.

As you begin to come to Church, we can make dates for preparation visits, and introduce you to people who will support you before and after the baptism of your child.

Preparation for baptism usually includes one or two visits by memebrs of our church, usually the priest who will take the baptism service. 

Godparents 

Godparents are not simply supportive family friends; they are among the most important people at a baptism. They make big promises to encourage their godchild to grow in faith and commit to helping them understand how to live their life in a Christian way. Alongside the parents, godparents are there to talk to their godchild about life’s bigger questions and to encourage Christian values.  

During the baptism, they will also promise to pray for their godchild, help them learn more about the Christian faith and will be asked to declare their own commitment to following Jesus. Because of this, Godparents must be baptised before they can take on this special role; ideally, they would also be confirmed, and be fully practising in their faith.  

Church of England law (known as canon law) allows for three godparents of either sex to be appointed, but four are also permitted. 


Baptism Dates

We offer baptisms either at one of our Baptism Services which are held several times a year, or during the 10am Sung Eucharist by arrangement. 

Dates for 2023



Dates for 2024