Baptisms

Loving parents always want the best for their children. Part of that expression of love, for some people, is to have a formal ceremony where the child is baptised. Many parents these days, due to their lack of information and experience of Christianity, feel unable to make the necessary promises on their child’s behalf.

However, in their recognition that we are all spiritual beings, they do want to bring their child for God’s blessing, and to give thanks for the new addition to their family. Such ceremonies are carried out by the church and this page sets out the options that are available to you and your family.

Baptisms

This rite takes place during a community service and has traditionally signified the occasion when the baptised person is united with Christ and with Christ’s people. In baptism they become members of the Christian family. It is seen as the beginning of a life journey and that the child will be given the opportunity to explore and understand the faith of their Baptism as they grow.

Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child

This service provides the opportunity for parents and families to give thanks for the birth or adoption of a child and to offer prayer for family life. This also takes place during a community service recognising the importance a community has in educating, protecting and encouraging children.

A Naming Ceremony

This service incorporates the formal naming of a child and is very similar to, and can be incorporated into, the Thanksgiving Service.

Prayers for the Loss of a Child

Sadly, not all pregnancies have a happy outcome. This service gives a place for parents to acknowledge their loss before God, to seek comfort, and to regain peace and hope for the future. Sometimes, due to the shock and circumstances, things were not done at the time that the parents may now wish to happen, such as naming the child. It does not matter how long ago this was.

For Adults:

Baptism is, of course, also readily available to adults.

Adults who are baptised may also now wish to be Confirmed. All inquiries are welcome.

We live in one of the few Western countries in the world where Christian Education in schools has never been allowed, although some School Boards do allow the Bible in Schools programme to operate.

This means that many people under thirty have grown up without the opportunity to formally explore their spirituality. That people recognise this deficit is clear by the amount of searching for spiritual truth that is evident in our society.

We can also offer you the opportunity to explore this important part of yourself, and to engage in discussion and ask questions, without being pressured. Also, click here to find out what it means to be a Christian.

Children’s Programmes:

We offer "Children’s Church" each week at our 9am Service at St. Michael’s, Greenhithe, with a larger Family Service on the last Sunday of each month.

At Holy Cross, Albany, the same programme operates at our 10.15am service with our Family Service on the 4th Sunday of each month.

For any questions or inquiries about any item on this page please Richard Vialoux email

You are welcome to also ring to talk about any personal concerns you may have.