Baptism and Confirmation
Baptism
What is Baptism?
Baptism (sometimes called Christening) is the first step of an amazing journey of faith.
It is a time of celebration and thanksgiving as we welcome a new member into our local, and global, church family.
In baptism, we are thanking God for His gift of life and making a public declaration to live a life of faith.
Can Anyone be Baptised?
We welcome people of all ages for baptism.
Whether you are relatively new to faith, or have been coming to church for a long time, anyone who wants to make a commitment to follow God is able to be baptised.
Will I need Godparents?
Godparents stand alongside parents to make promises on behalf of a child being baptised. They promise to pray and support their godchild, and to help their parents to raise them in the Christian faith.
If you are being baptised as an adult you do not need Godparents, but you may like to ask a someone to join you as a supporting friend.
What happens in the service?
Baptisms are led by the Minster clergy, and take place throughout the year, either in our main Sunday service, or as part of a separate celebration.
During the service, you will promise to reject sin and follow Christ, either for yourself or your child, before the sign of the Cross is marked on the forehead of those being baptised, symbolising their identity as a child of God. The act of baptism itself, the immersion in or pouring on of water, reminds us that through baptism we start a new life with Christ. Finally, at the end of the service, you will be given a candle, lit from the Easter candle, representing the guiding light of Christ throughout your life.
For more information, or to arrange a Baptism, please speak to a member of clergy or contact us.
Confirmation
What is Confirmation?
Confirmation is the next step after baptism.
It can be an important part of a lifetime journey of faith as you confirm the promises made at your baptism, and commit to live God’s way for the rest of your life.
For many people, confirmation is the opportunity to choose to make these promises for themselves, with baptism promises having been made on their behalf by their parents and godparents.
Can Anyone be Confirmed?
There is no set age for confirmation, anyone who is baptised and who is old enough to responsibly answer for themselves can be confirmed.
Is there any Preparation?
Confirmation typically follows the completion of a few preparation sessions. These will cover some of the basics of Christianity, and will help to encourage you to grow in your Christian faith through prayer, reflection, studying the Bible, attending to services and living out your faith at home, school or work.
What happens in the service?
Confirmation services are led by the Bishop, and take place both in the parish and across the diocese throughout the year.
During the service you will confirm your baptism promises, before the bishop lays their hands on your head and asks God’s Holy Spirit to give you the strength and commitment to live God’s way for the rest of your life.
