Baptisms and Thanksgiving
The Bible tells us that to become a Christian, or a follower of Christ, involves three clear steps
- Acknowledge Jesus is Lord
- Repent (meaning to stop putting ourselves first, but to turn and follow Christ).
- To be baptised.
A person can be baptised at any age. So please don’t let the fact you were not baptised as a child put you off from asking us about it.
If as a parent you feel unsure about baptising your child there is a second option called a Thanksgiving service.
Baptism Service
If the person being baptised is still a child, then the parents and God parents need to make serious promises on their behalf that they will, to the best of their ability, raise the child to know and understand the Christian faith.
If the person is older, then as they will have to make the promises for themselves, it is important that they fully understand all they are committing to.
As a result, it may be necessary to complete a short course on the Christian faith first.
Thanksgiving Service
A Thanksgiving Service is when we give thanks for the gift of a precious new child and pray for God’s blessing on their life.
It is not a baptism, and the child may be baptised later on if they wish it. It is a good option for parents who want to recognise God’s involvement at this very special time, but don’t feel ready to make some of the promises that accompany baptism.
Both Baptism and Thanksgiving are both serious, yet joyful occasions, where we welcome someone into the family of the church.
If you are interested in exploring either of these services, please come along to one of our Family Services on the fourth Sunday of each month to meet with and chat to our Vicar Kevin Flanagan.