Baptism and Thankgivings

Baptism FAQ's & Baptism Preparation Evening

parents and baby

What’s the difference between Baptism and a Christening?

Baptism is the service in church which many people call a “Christening”.

This is when someone, often a baby is welcomed into the church community, but adults also come to receive baptism too.

What do I have to do to arrange for a Baptism?

Speak to the Churchwarden after a service, or contact him/her see About Us.

We don’t live in one of the Parishes, does that matter?

It’s good to be welcomed into your local Christian community. If you don’t live in one of our parishes then we ask that you contact your local Church of England vicar and get his or her permission for the service to take place here. This is simply a matter of courtesy. The communities we cover are: Badby, Newnham, Charwelton, Fawsley and Preston Capes.

We don’t normally come to church, is that going to be a problem?

No, but we do ask that you attend two services before the baptism so that you and your family feel part of the Church community which you or your child is being welcomed in to.

I’m not baptised, can I still have my child done?

This isn’t a problem, although Godparents do need to have been baptised.

I’m a single parent, is that a problem?

Absolutely not.

We’re not married, will you still baptise our child?

If you’ve had a child together and you’re wanting to commit him or her into God’s care, it sounds like you’re in a pretty stable and long term relationship.

Not being married isn’t a bar to your child’s baptism, but if you’ve got their long-term welfare at heart, maybe now is a good time to think about committing yourselves as a couple into God’s care too.

When do you do Baptism Services?

We normally perform Baptisms as part of a normal Sunday Service.

What will it cost?

Nothing although some families like to make a donation to the church.

What if I’m not sure that I actually believe in God?

Good question. Sometimes the pressure to have a child baptised comes from outside – parents, friends, relatives e.t.c.

If you’re not sure that you’d feel comfortable publicly declaring a faith in God that you haven’t got then we offer a Service of Thanksgiving and Naming. This is an authorised Church of England service where your child will be named and given thanks for but where there are no expectations placed on you and where your child is also then at liberty to make their own decision about following God for themselves when they have grow up a little.

What happens next?

Have a word with the Church Warden at the church.

Click here to download our Baptism Application Form.

Planning your Visit

A Warm Hello

The following information is specifically for those planning a visit, so that you know, beforehand, what to expect on a Sunday morning.

Where and When

We meet for our Sunday services in five Church Buildings - well, six including a small chapel (details below). You can find the plan of our services here. Take a look at the online diary to see what service is happening where and when. We recommend arriving 10-15 minutes early to ensure you find a parking space (our church buildings predate the car and the need for carparks) and to find somewhere to sit before the service begins. When you arrive, you should be greeted by someone and handed anything you need to guide you through the service.

Some of our churches serve tea, coffee and biscuits following the service so don't dash off, it is a great way to meet people, or simply take time to find your bearings. All refreshments are free.

Plan your journey:
Visit the Our Churches page and click on the name of the church you want, at the bottom of the page you will find a what3words link which will open a map showing you precisely where the church building is.

Alternatively, Open Google Maps

Accessibility: If you need assistance, please let one of the Welcome Team know on your arrival and they will help you to get set up. There are disabled toilets in Badby church.

Our Service

The main service begins with a warm welcome from one of our team members. The service might be led by Malcolm (our Rector) or one of the Ministry Team or even a visiting member of clergy. We will sing a hymn or song, hear a short passage read from the Bible and the leader will then explain what that passage is all about - how God speaks to us through his Word and how we can apply it to our lives. We will pray and join in some responses (you don't have to if you don't feel it is appropriate) and there might be a short symbolic meal called Communion. During the service, there may be a baptism which is when we welcome someone into our Church fellowship and family. Of course, you don't have to do any of these things, they might seem strange the first time you encounter them, so take your time and don't feel any pressure.

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What about my kids?

Children and young people are very welcome in our church buildings and services.

Children stay with their parent or grown-up throughout the service and we really value worshipping God all together as a family.

Getting Connected

Small Groups

While Sundays are a great way to meet new people, it is often in smaller gatherings that you can really get to know someone. Come and join us at our Evening Service of The Word or for a coffee morning in Badby church.

Serving and Volunteering

If you want to get involved in the life of the church and help us make Sundays and week day events run smoothly, you can sign up to serve on a team, why not speak to someone on the welcome team at church or contact us through the Contact Us page.