Booking a baptism
If you are an adult who wishes to be baptised, or you have a child you wish to be baptised please either send an e-mail to Revd. Danny (vicar@sjpb.org.uk) or come along to the 10.30 am service on any Sunday. After the service, you will be able to meet a member of our ministry team in the Church Centre over a cup of tea of coffee, and make a booking for the baptism.
Questions about baptism services
What is the difference between baptism and christening?
- They are two different words for the same thing.
Can I have my child baptised in the main church service or do I have to have a separate service?
- Except by special arrangement, baptisms usually take place during our 'Praise Together' service at 10.30 am on the last Sunday of every month.
Do I have to be baptised for my child to be baptised?
- Baptism is for any child (parents/carers don’t have to be baptised) or for any adult. Children from around the age of 12 are encouraged to be confirmed as well as baptised, as are adults.
Do the godparents have to be baptised?
- Yes. Godparents have to be baptised already (in any mainstream Christian denomination). They should be aged 16+. Anyone who is not baptised but wants to be involved may take part in the service as a supporter of the baptism candidate. Parents/carers and godparents have to make promises about the Christian faith on behalf of the person who is being baptised, so need to have an awareness of Christian belief.
How many godparents do I need?
- According to Church of England regulations, children require at least three godparents (at least one should be male and one female).
- Adults do not godparents, but might choose to have a sponsor.
How much does a baptism service cost?
- There is no charge for baptism.
- We do encourage families and friends to support the work of St John’s Church by making a donation, but there is no obligation. This can be done in a number of ways, as a one off donation or by a regular gift, by parents, grandparents and godparents/sponsors and anyone who is there to support the person being baptised. It is a way of helping the work we do with children and young people at St John’s in the future.
How does my family qualify for baptism in the church?
- Anyone who lives in St John’s parish or has an ongoing connection* with may be baptised at St John's Church, or have their child baptised here.
*This could be through attendance at Church, Scouts, 'Jesse Tree' Stay and Play, Children's Worship, or other organisations.