Baptism & Confirmation
Baptism
In baptism, sometimes called Christening, God welcomes a person into the Church, of which Jesus Christ is the head and all baptised people are members.
The word baptism comes from the Greek for ‘immerse”. In Baptism we are immersed in the eternal love and forgiveness of God, and symbolically washed with water to become more Christ-like or “Christened”. In Baptism we are commissioned to share in Christ’s ministry in the world.
Individuals can seek baptism for themselves, and adults can also seek baptism for their children. From the beginning the Church has received believers by baptism, and believers’ children have also been baptised.
Baptisms are for all ages
At an adult’s baptism, mentors promise to encourage and support the newly baptised person’s spiritual journey. At a child’s baptism, parents and godparents promise to provide a Christian home of love and trust, and to nurture the child within the Church in their spiritual journey toward personal faith in Jesus Christ. At every baptism, members of the church, on behalf of the worldwide church, promise to support the newly baptised to grow as a disciple of Christ.
Confirmation
Adults and older teens seeking to renew their baptismal commitment to Jesus Christ and his Church can explore Confirmation.
In confirmation a person affirms and declares their faith, and receives the laying on of hands, with prayer offered by the Bishop for the Holy Spirit’s renewal and empowerment.
To explore more about Christian faith, Anglican beliefs and Confirmation, please either see the Spiritual FAQs & Resources page, or contact the parish office or vicar.