Baptisms

St Mary’s Barnes is a popular church for Baptisms and so we do recommend that you organise well in advance. Each baptism is a celebration of the joy that our children give us; the recognition that they are part of God’s family with us; and the profound experience of gratitude to God for their presence in our lives. We do also baptise adults upon request.

FAQs about Baptisms at St Mary's
What connection do I need to have to St Mary's to have my child baptised?

Usual criteria are a) living within the Parish of St Mary’s – you can check this on the website achurchnearyou.com b) being a regular worshipper at St Mary’s

What is the baptism service?

The baptism service at St Mary’s in Common Worship with anointing with oil and the presentation of a candle.  Baptisms are community service and not private services.  It is a full service with hymns, prayers, readings and an address.

When can my child be baptised?

Presuming that you are eligible for a baptism at St Mary’s, you can select from one of our monthly dates noting that these will not be in Lent and Advent. The service will be at 11.45am for approximately 45 minutes and it will be shared with other families, we do not offer private baptisms.

Are there any fees to pay?

Yes, there is a statutory fee of £20 and we hope that you will make the recommended voluntary contribution of £80 to support the important work of St Mary’s in your community.  This donation can be allocated Gift Aid when you complete for application form presuming if you are a UK tax payer.

Godparents & Sponsors

To be a godparent, an individual must be baptised.  It is possible for an individual to be a sponsor if they are not baptised, they will participate in the service in the same way but are not permitted to be termed as godparents.

Entertaining after the service

We do have spaces available after the service, the Melvill & Ellerton rooms– these are on two levels connected by a spiral staircase. There is a small kitchenette in the Melvill room.  There is a larger hall around the corner- Kitson Hall, further details can be found here.

Dates currently available
  1. 19 April 11.45am (fully booked)
  2. 10 May 11.45am (two spaces)
  3. 7 June 10am All Age Service (live streamed)
  4. 12 July 11.45am (fully booked)
  5. 2nd August 10am All Age Service (live streamed)
  6. 13 September 11.45am (fully booked)
  7. 4 October 10am All Age Service (live streamed)
  8. 15 November 11.45am
  9. No Baptisms during Advent