Baptisms
Whenever it happens, whether as a baby, child or adult, baptism is at the heart of an amazing journey of faith as a follower of Jesus Christ. You are never too old to take this step, and being baptized as an adult is a wonderful experience.
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You may have been baptized at a christening when you were a child or in a different Christian tradition, and there are always special ways to renew the promises that were made then in a fresh way as you discover more about what it means to live them out in your life.
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You may be asked to go along to a few sessions to explore more about what it means to be a Christian, usually joining others who are exploring faith as well. Then there will be a special service where you will be baptized. In the Church of England this may involve water being poured on your head at the font, or the church may have a special pool and you will be fully immersed in the water. However it happens, it’s a great occasion, full of joy
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The Parish of Christ Church St Leonard’s on Sea welcomes you, and your family.
We are here to offer help and to pray for the future happiness and peace of your family in the years ahead.
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What is Baptism?
Holy Baptism makes us Christians, which is why it is sometimes called `Christening`. It is the first of seven sacraments and absolutely essential—we cannot become Christians without it. When someone is baptised they become members of Christ’s body, which is the Church.
Baptism marks a new beginning of a persons life as a Christian.
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People become members of the Church (God’s Family), by being baptised. We prepare people for baptism as children and as adults.
Those who want to become more committed are confirmed. In this Parish there is an annual Confirmation Group. If you are baptised and are now interested in being prepared for Confirmation, please contact one of our clergy.
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Why be baptised?
Those who care for us want us to have the very best start in life. From the moment we are born we are dependant upon others to feed us, clothe us, care for us and love us. Without this care we would quickly perish. We also need our spiritual well being looked after until we are able to look after ourselves, which is why baptism is so important. When you smile at your baby it brings them to life. God’s smile comes in baptism. It is a sign that we are precious and valued.
What is your role?
Very often the child to be baptised is too young to understand what is happening at their baptism, so as your child grows he or she needs your support. This is done through:
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Your prayers— asking God to help you and your child.
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Your example— showing your child how to live in love and compassion.
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Your teaching— telling your child about Jesus and the Christian way of life.
Don’t worry! The Church is here to help. If you have any questions about faith and prayer, or simply want advice on choosing Christian books, or would like to know more about activities for the young children, just ask.
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What about Godparents?
You will need support in bringing up your child as a Christian. The Church asks for three Godparents to help with this responsibility—so choose them carefully. They must be baptised and it is a good idea to have people who go to church regularly. Choose people who are willing to accept the same responsibilities as you in bringing up your child as a Christian.
How do Godparents help?
Godparents share responsibility in a number of ways: for example, remembering your child on the anniversary of their birthday, at Christmas, Easter and on the anniversary of their baptism with appropriate gifts such as Bible story books etc.. They also encourage by their own example of going to Church regularly, praying with your child and perhaps even teaching your child prayers, such as the ‘Our Father’.
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How much does it cost?
Nothing. There is no charge for baptism. If you wish to make an offering that is at the total discretion of the family—but this is a purely voluntary contribution
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The big day
The day of Baptism is a great day for your child and the family, and for the Church as it welcome as new member. Because baptism makes us members of the Church, the rest of God’s family will want to get to know you and welcome you, so please come to Church regularly before and after the baptism so that you can begin to learn what it means to be a member of the Christian family.