We have many baptisms at St Mary’s and we take a lot of care
in making them special for the children and families concerned. 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
Baptisms normally take place at the 11.30 Family Service on the 2nd Sunday of each month, usually with 4 or 5 children. This means it is a full service with hymns, reading, address, prayers, as well as the baptism - this reflects our understanding that baptism is at the heart of our church life at St Mary’s. The service is attended by a large number of our regular family service congregation; that gives the sense of the church family receiving new members into its midst. Families are involved in reading the lesson, choosing the hymns, lighting the Easter candle and pouring the water into the font
To help prepare for the baptism service, we invite all the parents involved to a supper (normally in the week beforehand) with the Revd David Thomas, and with Emma Powell, the Family Service Assistant Pastor. This takes place at the house of a couple who have recently had a child baptised themselves. There you will hear a bit about what happens in the service over drinks before a relaxing and convivial meal

At most services, there is an older child being baptised. If so we will arrange a meeting with the child to talk about baptism and the service so that the service is as meaningful as possible for him or her
Bookings for baptisms are made through our Baptisms
Co-ordinator Please be aware that St Mary’s is seeing more and more baptisms and it may not always be possible to have your preferred date, particularly if requested at short notice