Baptism
What is Baptism?
Baptism [also called Christening] is the way in which we join God’s family,
the Church. You can be baptised as an adult believer, or as a child or baby
on the understanding that parents and godparents will bring you up as a
Christian. It should be seen as an important Christian commitment, and more
than just a good excuse for a party; though there is every cause for a
celebration!
Can anyone be baptised at Morecambe Paris Church?
If you live in the parish of our church we are happy to offer Baptism even
if you are not yet a regular church attender. It’s a great way to start or
renew a commitment to God and his people.
If you would like to arrange a baptism please go along to the side entrance
of the Memorial Hall on a Tuesday evening between 7.00 and 7.30pm. You will
be asked to fill in a few details about yourself and the person you wish to
be baptised. Sometimes we have many members of the family who wish to be
baptised at the same service. Baptisms usually take place at Noon on a
Sunday. On your visit to the Memorial Hall you will be asked for the date
you require and will be told if this date is available.
Your details will then be passed to a Baptism Visitor. They will contact you
to arrange an appointment to come and see you at a time to suit you. Your
Baptism Visitor will explain about the service, and the commitment you are
making. You will be given a service sheet so you need not worry about any
surprises on the day! Everything is very informal and please do ask as many
questions as you like.
Nearer the time you will be contacted by the Rector or the Curate who will be
performing the baptism. They will come and see you to discuss the service in
more detail.
When is the service?
The service is usually held on a Sunday at 12.00pm. There may be other
candidates being baptised at the same time, but never more than three
families. The service lasts about half an hour. It is possible for the
Baptism to be part of the main Sunday Morning Eucharist at 10.00am on
request.
Godparents - what is their role?
A
child’s godparents undertake to play a role in the Christian upbringing of the
child. They commit to pray regularly for the child, to be a good Christian
example, and to encourage attendance at church. Godparents must be baptised
themselves, and it is usual to have three and occasionally four.
What does it cost?
Financially, nothing! Jesus paid the price for us to join God’s family for you on the cross. But we trust you will consider the cost of commitment to Jesus and his church throughout your life. Come on in!
Updated: 1.07.08