Baptism and Thanksgiving

Baptism involves:

The parents and godparents:

  • Thanking God for his gift of life
  • Deciding to start your child on the journey of faith and asking for the Church's support
  • Joining the Church in expressing your belief in God and praying for your child.
Your child:
  • Beginning a journey of faith
  • Becoming a member of the local and worldwide Christian family
  • Sharing in the death and resurrection of Jesus in a symbolic way
The church:
  • Promising to welcome, support and pray for you and your child
  • Being reminded of the importance of this baptism for every Christian
  • Providing a worshipping community where everyone can grow in faith.
Christians describe baptism as a sacrament - a visible sign of God's love.  We believe that God loves people of every race, creed or colour.  At baptism, we are thanking God for the gift of life and acknowledging his love. We are turning away from evil, sin and darkness and turning towards Christ.

Commonly asked questions

What's the difference between a baptism and a christening?

None.  They are different names for the same thing.

What if a teenager or adult wants to be baptised?

This is perfectly normal practice.  Get in touch to talk to us about baptism combined with confirmation.  It's never too late.

I'd like to be baptised again because I don't remember anything about my baptism as a baby.

You can only be baptised once - but there are other ways, including special services, or renewing your commitment to Christ publicly.  

How much does it cost?

Baptism is free, although there may be a small charge for a baptism certificate.  Some parents like to make a donation to the Church and there may be a small administration fee.

What happens at a baptism?

The key points are:

  • Adults speak for themselves
  • Parents and godparents speak for a baby
  • The principles of the Christian faith are acknowledged and accepted in public
  • Promises are made about following the teaching of Jesus
  • Water is poured over the head as a sign of a new life as a member of the church
  • The new 'member' is welcomed by the congregation.

We'd like a church service for our child but don't feel ready to make those promises.

That's fine, we would be happy to help you explore the Christian faith further.  In the meantime, you might like to think about having a Thanksgiving service for your child.

What is a Thanksgiving?

The church believes we should give thanks to God for the gift of a child.  During our 10.30am service on a Sunday, the parents and child come to the front and we say special prayers and give thanks for the child.  At Holy Trinity, all children - even those whose parents are thinking of baptism - have a Thanksgiving ceremony.

So how does it all work?

First, talk to one of the clergy at Holy Trinity or contact us.  They will explain in more detail what happens next and even suggest possible dates for a Thanksgiving.

If you wish to explore baptism you will be contacted later and arrangements made for some home visits.  The visitor may be one of the clergy, or a lay person from our congregation.

There will be at least two visits over a three month period.  During this time, we'd hope to get to know you as you explore what joining the church means.

If after this period you'd like to plan a baptism, we'll book a date.

Can I just have a Thanksgiving?

Yes, and it will still be very special for you.  You can also explore baptism with us and get to know us better - whatever you wish.