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, usually with two or more 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 regular members of our family service congregation; that gives the sense of the church family receiving new members into its midst. Baptism 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 a child's baptism service, parents are invited to a a meeting beforehand

Sometimes, 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 experience is as meaningful as possible for him or her

Adult baptisms are also provided for

Bookings for baptisms are made through our Church Administrator. 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.