A Family Baptism

Here at St Bartholomew's and St Christopher's, we believe a child becomes part of the great family of God's Church.  We recognise and support the commitment of families who wish to worship here and become part of our fellowship. We would like to encourage all families whose children are being baptised to come and join us regularly both before and after their special baptism day.

We can offer our many family and children's groups for all ages, from zero upwards!  Find out more about our family ministries here.

I would like to have my child baptised, what should I do?

The first thing to say is that we are delighted that you would like to have your child baptised.  In the first instance, make a call to the Rector Revd Chris Bessant or to the Parish Office.  Most parents are interested to discuss a date, which it should be possible to quickly confirm.  Also, on that first call we can consider the kind of service you might like, and some ideas of the number of guests you wish to invite.  Working out these details early on allows the baptism to be shaped according to your family’s needs.  The minister will wish to meet you beforehand, either at your home or in church.  This is a chance for us to get to know you a bit better, where we can also introduce you to the full range of children and families work in the parish.  Depending upon your understanding of the Christian faith, it is also possible that some level of faith preparation may be suggested, but that will be fully explained when we meet you.

Revd Chris Bessant, 01428 658107, Rector@HaslemereParish.org
Haslemere Parish Office, 01428 644578, Office@HaslemereParish.org

What happens during a baptism service?

Baptism is an ancient rite of passage which is available to anyone at any age who wishes to make a commitment to the Christian faith, and to join the Church of England.  Most baptisms we hold in the parish are for babies or young children, in which case a baptism also carries a happy celebration and thanksgiving for new life and family.  However, baptisms for older children and adults are by no means unusual, so do please ask.

Most baptisms are set as dedicated private services for the family, which allows you to invite as many guests as you would like and set a time to suit e.  Some baptisms can be held within a normal Sunday morning church service too, in which case you can discuss that with either Chris or Justin. 

Godparents

Godparents are central to the celebration of a new life, and good growth.  As family and friends, they should be prepared to make a life-long commitment to give your children their prayerful guidance and care, set by their own example of living a Christian virtuous life.  For this reason, care must be taken when selecting and inviting your child’s godparents.  It is expected that they will be baptised as Christians themselves or are willing to be.  Sometimes we are able to baptise parents and godparents on the same day as their child!  If in doubt, do please discuss with your minister.

We recommend two-four godparents, although more may be possible under some special circumstances.  The key principle is that it’s important that your godparents are able to make the promises of baptism, which are made as vows before God, according to the beliefs of the Christian Faith.   Godparents may be of any Christian denomination at their own baptism.   Do please seek the advice of your church ministers before confirming godparents.

How should we prepare for Baptism?

During the service of baptism, parents and godparents make a number of important promises, which we call vows.  These will be some of the most important commitments that you will make during your life, and are made before Almighty God.  When the minister visits you to prepare, they will guide out through the layout of the service and explain to you the points of faith and commitment.

At St Bartholomew’s and St Christopher’s, we take the view that baptism is the beginning of a journey, not only for those being baptised, but also their family.  We invite families to inquire with an open mind towards the Christian faith, and goodwill towards discovering more.  Our churches offer a comprehensive range of children’s groups, services, courses and fellowship groups for the whole family.  Our ministers are heavily involved in the local schools, and well known in the community. 

What will happen on the day of baptism?

The service of baptism is a happy occasion without being formal.  Together with your family and friends we all gather in the church on the appointed day and time, after which the minister introduces themselves.  Usually there is a short talk about the meanings, symbols and commitments of baptism, after which we guide parents and godparents through the promises they will make, before anointing and baptising the child or person in the name of God the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.

What happens after the baptism? 

When you meet with the minister, they will explain the ministry of the church and how this might work for you.  Here in the Parish of Haslemere we have a wide range of all-ages groups and Sunday gatherings, plus our contact with St Bartholomew’s school.  We also have a considerable contact with other families within the church and community, so we can introduce you to other families and people as you wish.

Do we pay the church for a baptism?

No. Baptism is free gift from God, through his Church.  The service of baptism carries no fees.  From time to time, families do wish to hire one of our church spaces for their celebration gathering after the service, which will attract as small fee.  The Parish of Haslemere is financed almost entirely through the donations of those who would like to support our work.  It is not uncommon for baptism families to ask how they might make a small donation, and if this is your wish you only need to ask.