New life in Christ
Holy Baptism
Baptism is the beginning of Christian life: God welcomes us into union with Christ and the fellowship of his Church. Christ Church baptises adults and children and will guide you carefully through preparation.
Beginning the journey
What happens next
You do not need to understand every detail before contacting us. Begin with a conversation and we will help you discern and prepare for this important step.
Make an enquiry
Contact the Rector or Parish Office. We will listen to your circumstances, answer initial questions and explain the next available steps.
Prepare together
Preparation normally takes place in three sessions with the Rector or another priest, exploring Christian faith, the baptismal covenant and the responsibilities involved.
Celebrate Baptism
Baptisms normally take place during the 10.00 am Choral Eucharist, where the newly baptised are welcomed by the worshipping community.
The meaning of Baptism
An outward sign of God’s grace
Jesus commanded his Church to make disciples and baptise in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. In Baptism, water and the Church’s prayer proclaim God’s gift of forgiveness, new birth and belonging in Christ.
Saint Paul describes Baptism as sharing in Christ’s death and resurrection and becoming part of his Body, the Church. It is not simply a private ceremony, but the beginning of a life of faith, worship and service.
Scripture: John 3:5; Matthew 28:19; Romans 6:3–11; 1 Corinthians 12:12–13.
Who may be baptised?
Adults and children
The Church’s welcome embraces people beginning faith at every stage of life.
Adults seeking Baptism
Adults are prepared to confess the Christian faith for themselves. The preparation conversations provide space to ask questions, explore the Gospel and consider the promises made in Baptism.
- No prior church experience is required.
- Questions and honest conversation are welcome.
- The Rector will explain the service and promises carefully.
Children brought for Baptism
Parents bring children for Baptism trusting in God’s grace and promising to nurture them within the Christian faith. Godparents share in those promises and support the child’s life in Christ.
- Parents and godparents take part in preparation.
- Baptism belongs within the worshipping life of the Church.
- Families are encouraged to grow in prayer and regular worship.
Practical questions
Helpful things to know
When are Baptisms held?
They normally take place during the 10.00 am Choral Eucharist so that the congregation can welcome and pray for the newly baptised.
How long is preparation?
The Christ Church Baptism course is normally undertaken in three sessions with the Rector or another priest.
What will we discuss?
The sessions explore Christian faith, union with Christ, grace, the baptismal covenant and the responsibilities of candidates, parents and godparents.
May we begin with questions?
Yes. An initial conversation carries no obligation. We will be glad to help you consider whether Baptism at Christ Church is the right next step.
Begin with a conversation
We would be glad to hear from you
Contact the Rector for a pastoral conversation or the Parish Office for practical assistance. You do not need to have every detail settled before making contact.
Please avoid sending sensitive pastoral details by email; an initial message is enough for us to make contact.