Baptism at All Saints and St Andrew's
W At the baptism preparation evening you will meet the clergy and hear a short presentation about baptism. You will be asked to think carefully about the promises you and your child's godparents will be making. You will also be introduced to a member of the baptism visiting team who will make a date to call round and see you at home to chat through any questions you may have. In the meantime, you will be asked to think through some information, and to come and see a baptism service at All Saints or St Andrew's.
When all your questions have been answered, and you are happy to go ahead, your baptism visitor will arrange a date for the service. Eight FAQs
Q: What's the difference between baptism and christening?
A: None - they are different names for the same thing. 'Baptism' is a Greek word used in the Bible and it simply means 'soaking'; it refers to the physical act of pouring water over your child which is a picture of being washed clean from sin. 'Christening' is an old English word which means 'getting connected with Jesus Christ'; it refers to the spiritual truth behind the physical symbol.
Q: How much will it cost to have our child baptised?
A: There is no charge for baptism - it’s free.
Q: How quickly can we organise the baptism?
A: There is a baptism service at both All Saints and St Andrew's every month. We get a lot of requests for baptism, however, and you may have to wait several months for your 'turn'. If you are particularly keen to have the baptism at All Saints you will probably have to wait longer than for a service at St Andrew's. To avoid disappointment, please do not make firm plans for your celebrations until the date has been confirmed with your baptism visitor.
Q: We have a family connection with All Saints or St Andrew's, but we no longer live in the parish (Huntingon, Earswick or New Earswick). Can we still have our child baptised at the church?
A: Yes, but you will need to contact your local vicar to ask his/her permission. If you live a long way from the parish, your baptism visitor may ask you to travel to Huntington when you meet together.
Q: Can we have our child baptised at a private service?
A: Christian baptism is a public ceremony, not just a family occasion. Baptisms take place during the main 10.30 a.m. service. The congregation will promise to uphold your child in his/her new life in Christ, and formally welcome him/her as a member of the Christian church.
Q: Can anybody be a godparent?
A: Yes, so long as they have been baptised (you will need to tell us the date and place of their baptism), and are mature enough to understand the promises they will make. Being a godparent is a long term commitment.
Q: What if we decide that we cannot honestly make the promises?
A: Children are baptised on the understanding that they and their parents will play a full part in the life of the church. If, after careful thought, you do not feel you can make that commitment, you may prefer a service of thanksgiving for the gift of your child. We would be very happy to discuss this with you. Ask your baptism visitor if you would like to know more.
Q: What if an older child or an adult wants to be baptised?
A: Great! Ask us about it. It may be a good idea to come along to an Alpha Course first.
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