Baptism

HOLY BAPTISM

Holy Baptism one of the high points of our worship and our life together.

In the mystery of Holy Baptism, we believe that we actually die with Christ to sin and death, and we rise again to freedom and life eternal.  When we baptize infants, it is the parents and sponsors (Godparents) who make promises on behalf of the child.  When we baptize adults, the adult herself or himself renounces evil, affirms faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour and joins in promising to uphold the faith of the Church.
In baptism Holy Water is poured over the head of the person being baptized.  Then Holy Oil is poured on the person’s on the head and the sign of the Cross made on their forehead as the presence of the Holy Spirit is invoked and claimed for this new Christian. Finally, a candle is give to the newly baptized, symbolizing that this person now shares in carrying the Light of Christ into the world.

FAQs

Is Baptism the same as Christening?

Yes. The word ‘Christen’ means to admit someone as a Christian in baptism.

Traditionally people tend to associate Christening with the baptism of infants.

Do we have to attend church?

Many of the promises and undertakings made by parents and Godparents at Baptism imply that you take seriously the promises you are making. It is important, therefore, to feel part of the local Christian community into which your child is being baptised. Our three congregations warmly welcome those who come with children.  We rejoice to have them present and that we might play some small part in their coming to know how much God loves them.  To celebrate a baptism is one of our great joys!

Is there any charge for Baptism?

There are no fees for Baptism.

However, families often want to make a gift as a token of their thanksgiving and appreciation.

Who should we choose as Godparents for our child?

Most people have very special family or friends who they feel will serve well as Godparents.

The Church requires that Godparents should be baptised Christians, and where possible,

confirmed.  Once again, the promises imply that parents and Godparents are themselves baptised. Sometimes parents have not already been baptised. This may well prove a time for great thought and consideration in the life of a family. Please speak to our Priest or, if you know any, one of the members of the congregation who will want to support and encourage you.

Adults seeking baptism would normally be prepared for confirmation at the same time.

There isn’t anyone we can think of who could act as Godparents? Can you help?

The local congregation will be happy to suggest Godparents from the Christian Community who will endeavour to stand by your child in their Christian life.

When should the Baptism take place?

It is important that Baptism takes place after preparation and good planning. Baptism should be within the context of public worship so as to express that nature of belonging within the Christian Family. This may be at the Parish Eucharist or at a monthly public service of Baptism to which members of the community are invited.

I am a single parent and am anxious for my child to be baptized. However, I am concerned about the involvement in a public service.

You are most welcome! We well remember that Jesus’ mother was not married when he was born and that, when the time came, it was not her Son’s father that she married  We will be very sensitive to your enquiry and will do all that they are able to assist, welcome and encourage you.

My parents didn’t have me baptised as a child. But now I would like to be baptised, even though I don’t attend Church. What should I do?

Please speak with your Priest who will advise you.

He will be understanding and will do his best to help you.

We want to express our thanksgiving to God for the birth of our child, but we feel that he/she should decide for themselves at a later stage whether or not they should be baptised. Can the Church help us?

The Church is happy to welcome you and your child/children at a service of thanksgiving for their life. This, too, can take place in the context of public parish worship. It can be a celebration of their life and of your family love. However, it must be made clear that it does not convey the Christian membership and life-long commitment which takes place in the waters of Baptism.

I would like to give a Baptismal/Christening gift.

Is there anything appropriate I should consider?

There are compilations of prayers for children, stories from the Bible, crosses, crucifixes, and attractive posters, mobiles, amongst many other items. Please ensure that such a gift is followed up with encouragement in the new Christian life of the child. If you want to know where to look for gifts and material please speak with the local clergy.

The birth of our child has transformed our lives. We feel we would like to pursue a closer life to Christ. Can we make a greater commitment at this time?

The Baptism of your child provides a wonderful opportunity for you to make a commitment and promise both for him/her and for yourselves. Please speak with your Priest/Rector who will be pleased to help and assist you.

 

Contact:

Our Interim Rector, The Most Rev’d Mark Strange, 

Bishop of Moray, Ross & Caithness

Phone: 01463 811333 

Email:  bishop@moray.anglican.org