A riverside service led by Bishop Richard drew a crowd of 70 as four adults made a public commitment to Christian faith in the River Rib near Standon.

On Saturday 10 May, two adults were baptised by full immersion in the River Rib, and two others reaffirmed their baptismal promises, in a service led by Bishop Richard in the United Benefice of Standon, the Mundens and Sacombe.

Following a recent course held in the parish, two candidates came forward for baptism. They were joined by two others who wished to make a public commitment to Christ by reaffirming the promises made for them when they were baptised as infants.

The service took place in spring sunshine, with around 70 people gathered on the riverbank. They joined in singing, took part in the liturgy and offered encouragement as the baptisms took place. The crowd included several people who do not usually attend church, drawn in to mark the occasion.

Dean and Emily, Sue and Lewis were all immersed in the River Rib and later confirmed in the church by Bishop Richard.

The Revd John Chitham, Rector of the United Benefice of Standon, the Mundens and Sacombe, said:

“We have the great joy of a chalk stream (the River Rib) running through Standon. Three years ago, we had some adult candidates for baptism and discussed the possibility of baptism by immersion with them, following the biblical pattern. “Rather than bring a baptistry into the church, it seemed obvious to explore whether the river could be used. Fortunately, not far downstream from the church, there is a place where children have swum for generations. It has proved very suitable for baptisms, with both a gathering place and an easy entrance into deep water.”

Pictures are attached below