Frequently asked
questions
What’s
the difference between a baptism and a christening?
Can we
have a private service of baptism?
What is the
right age for baptism?
I’m
not a regular churchgoer: can I still have my children baptised?
How do I arrange a baptism
in the Team parish of Oldham?
What’s the difference between a baptism and a christening?
None whatsoever. They are simply different words for
the same thing.
Can we have a private service of baptism?
Yes. The baptism of a church member’s child normally
takes place after the principal Sunday service. The usual time for baptism
services at St John the
Baptist
is 11:15 am. At the baptism service at St Barnabas’
Church or Holy Trinity Waterhead Churches is usually in the afternoon and
typically 1:00 pm.
Please contact us early, at the start of your planning of the
baptism.
What is the right age
for baptism?
Baptism can occur at any age. What matters is
that those concerned believe it is right to ask for baptism.
Teenagers and adults may also be
baptised – speak to us about this. The Bishop often celebrates this with
confirmation. You can only be baptised once, but there are ways of renewing
your commitment publicly as an adult – our priest will be able to advise.
I’m not a regular churchgoer: can I still have my children baptised?
Yes. The Church of England believes that God’s
love is available to all, regardless of their background. Our parish priest can
talk you through the options: you may prefer to have a Thanksgiving service first, and then consider a
baptism when you have had time to talk through what is being asked of you.
We do not charge for a baptism. We therefore
ask for donations at the end of the baptism service.
How do I arrange a
baptism?
Please start by
contacting
us and tell us you would
like a baptism.
Whenever possible, we ask the parents and
godparents to attend a short interview (either in the church or in your own
home). The interview will happen between a fortnight and a week before the
baptism service takes place.
The interview has three purposes: it allows
us to explain the baptism service and its symbolism; and you can ask us more
questions if you want to. This interview usually lasts about 30 minutes.
Before coming to the
interview we ask you to complete a simple form. If you prefer, download a copy here and bring it with you.
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Page posted 15 July 2012