Baptism is the way we join the Christian family (the Church) and are made Christians. This is why it is also called Christening.

What happens at baptism?

There are two aspects to baptism:

– the outward sign performed by the vicar

– the inward gift given by God.

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The outward sign

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– Everyone is baptised by having water poured over them.

– Everyone is baptised with the words:

In the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.

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The inward gift

God’s gift is his Holy Spirit. This is too wonderful for us to explain in any one way, so we use many different pictures to help us see what God is doing for us in baptism: he forgives our sin, we are born again, he makes us his children, we inherit his kingdom.

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Why bother with baptism?

We baptise people because it is the way God has chosen for men, women and children to join the Christian family and begin the Christian life. Jesus commanded it, Saint Peter and the apostles obeyed, and the Church has continued to do so ever since.

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Whom do I contact to arrange the baptism?

Father Nicholas, is responsible for organizing the service.

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Who can be baptised at St Cuthbert's or St Stephen's?

Anyone can be baptised who is living in the parish of St Cuthbert's or St Stephen's or who has strong links with the church, for example a regular attender of services with the parishes. If you’re not sure if you live in the parish it is best to email or phone the Fr. Nicholas.

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What is the cost of the baptism ceremony?

The service of baptism is free, but if you would like to make a donation to the church it would be kindly received.

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What about the godparents?

The godparents must be baptised, and preferably confirmed, before they can carry out their duties.

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Other points of information

Families are most welcome at St Cuthbert's and St Stephen's. We ask those in the baptism party who are not regular churchgoers to be respectful of the service in progress and the worshippers around them.