Christenings and Baptisms at All Saints Church, Cressing
You are loved by God. You always have been. And that is something worth celebrating!
Thinking about having your baby or child christened? Perhaps you're considering baptism for yourself? Whatever brings you here, we're delighted that you're thinking about celebrating this special occasion at All Saints Cressing.
First things first: a christening and a baptism are exactly the same thing! Some people say christening, others say baptism, but both describe the same wonderful celebration. So whichever word you're more familiar with, you're in the right place.
What is a christening or baptism?
We believe that every person is already known, cherished and loved by God, long before they ever set foot inside a church.
Baptism doesn't make God love us more, or suddenly make us worthy of that love. God's love is already there, freely and generously given.
Instead, baptism is a beautiful way of recognising and celebrating that love. Using water as a symbol of new life, we welcome someone into the Christian community and mark the beginning of a journey of faith, friendship and discovery.
For babies and young children, parents and godparents make promises to help them grow in faith, discover God's love and learn about the life and teachings of Jesus.
For older children and adults, baptism is an opportunity to express their own desire to explore and follow the Christian faith.
And please don't worry if you don't know all the answers. None of us does! Faith is a journey, and we're all learning as we go.
Why choose All Saints Cressing?
For generations, our beautiful village church has been a place where families have gathered to celebrate life's important moments.
There is something rather lovely about bringing a new generation into a church that has welcomed so many before them, surrounded by family, friends and a community that will support and encourage them as they grow.
At All Saints, we believe that church should be a place where everyone feels they belong. We're a community of ordinary, imperfect people doing our best to love God, care for one another and make a positive difference in the world.
When someone is baptised, the whole church celebrates and promises to welcome and support them on their journey.
You don't need to be a regular churchgoer to ask about a christening. Whether you've been coming to church for years, haven't visited since childhood, or have never been before, you'll find a warm welcome here.
We welcome enquiries from families living in Cressing and the surrounding area, as well as those with an existing connection to our church.
When do christenings take place?
Christenings usually take place as part of one of our church services, because welcoming someone into the Christian family is something we love to celebrate together.
Our services are friendly and welcoming, and children are very much part of our church life.
We don't expect babies to stay quiet, toddlers to sit perfectly still, or anyone to know all the words. A little noise, excitement and the occasional unexpected contribution from a small person are all part of the joy!
Sometimes more than one family may be celebrating a christening together, making it an especially happy occasion.
We'll talk through the arrangements with you and help make the day personal, meaningful and memorable.
We'd love to hear from you!
Whether you're ready to arrange a christening or baptism, or you're simply wondering what it's all about, please get in touch.
There's no need to have everything worked out before you contact us. Questions, curiosity and even a few doubts are all very welcome.
Because baptism isn't about being perfect, knowing all the right answers or earning God's love. It's about celebrating a love that has been there from the very beginning, and discovering where that love might lead us.
For all christening and baptism enquiries, please contact:
Revd Tayrina Ferguson
Vicar of Coggeshall and the United Parishes
Email: [email protected]
Telephone: 01376 806074