Baptisms
Baptism at All Saints
We are delighted that you are thinking of baptism for your child. Your child is precious to you and precious to God. At baptism you promise to raise your child to know that God loves them, and to help them follow Jesus as a member of the church.
Jesus himself was baptised in the River Jordan as a sign of a new beginning, which you can read about in Mark’s Gospel in the New Testament. Jesus told His followers to baptize others as a sign that they were about to begin a new life as members of the Christian faith.
Baptism is a sacrament, an outward and visible sign of God’s love for us. In baptism we thank God for his gift of life and publicly acknowledge His love. It marks a new start: a decision to follow Jesus Christ within the family of the church.
During the baptism service you and the godparents publicly promise to do your best to raise your child to follow Jesus, as part of the wider Church family. You will also make promises on behalf of your child before they are baptised with water in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit and then welcomed by the whole congregation into the Church.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a baptism and a christening?
None. They are the same thing, but churches normally use the term ‘baptism’.
When do baptisms take place?
We hold baptism services at All Saints on the first three Sunday mornings of each month (except in August and December).
Due to the large numbers of baptisms taking place at All Saints, there will often be up to three families at each baptism service.
What is the right age for baptism?
Baptism can happen at any age, but what matters is that you believe that it is the right thing to do. Teenagers and adults may also be baptised, so do ask us for advice about this. You can only be baptised once.
What does it cost?
There is no charge for the service of baptism itself. However, we do charge a fee of £12.00 which covers the cost of issuing the baptism certificate. There is also a collection during the service.
Why do we need godparents?
Godparents make the same promises as the parents to help raise the child in the Christian faith. It is an important and responsible role.
Who should we choose as godparents and how many should we have?
Church law states that normally there should be at least three godparents, two of the same sex as the child and one of the other. Godparents can be family members or friends, but do choose people who you trust to take an interest in your child’s spiritual welfare, and who will be a good example of Christian living. Godparents must be baptised themselves. Do contact us if you wish to discuss this further.
How many guests can we invite?
This depends upon the number of baptisms taking place at that particular service. However, we usually recommend a maximum of 35 guests per family.
How long does the baptism service last?
The service lasts approximately 40 minutes, again varying slightly according to the number of baptisms taking place.
Can we take photos/video?
Yes, we are happy for photos and video to be taken during the baptism. However, please remember that it is a church service and act appropriately. There is also some time after the service to take more photographs in and around the church.
Does the church have parking facilities?
Unfortunately we only have on-street parking. This is limited, so do allow plenty of time to park on the surrounding streets and walk up to church. Please do not use Aston Hall Hotel car park (unless of course your baptism party is booked there!)
How can I arrange a baptism at All Saints Church?
You can arrange a baptism by contacting our Baptism Administrator, Gloria Hope, on 07553 504806 or e-mail [email protected]
We will take you and your child’s details, and send out by post the baptism forms that you need to complete. We also ask you to attend a preparation meeting where, as well as collecting in your completed form and fee, we will go through and explain the service of baptism. It is very important that you do attend this meeting, as it is our chance to meet with you prior to the baptism itself. Godparents and other family members are very welcome to attend, though this is not essential. The preparation meeting lasts approximately 45 minutes. You will be advised of the meeting date at the time of booking.
Do contact us, too, if you would like to have a baptism service at Holy Trinity Church, Ulley or Christ Church, Swallownest.
What happens after the baptism?
Now your child is a member of the worldwide Christian community! The three churches of Aston, Swallownest and Ulley welcome children at all our services, and offer special groups and activities for children and families to attend. Do contact anyone listed in our ‘Who’s who’ page for more information.
We hope your child’s baptism will be a wonderful and memorable occasion that will mark the beginning of a long and happy association with our church.
A Baptism Prayer
Today God has touched you with his love and given you a place among his people. God promises to be with you in joy and in sorrow, to be your guide in life, and to bring you safely to heaven. Shine as a light in the world To the glory of God the Father Amen.