Baptisms

Baptism is the rite whereby people become Christians. It washes away sin, gives the gift of eternal life and makes us part of Christ’s Body, the Church. It is administered unfailingly with water in the name of the Holy Trinity – Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It is a moment of simple joy when through the unspectacular action of a little water pouring over a person’s head, they are transformed into a child of God, a member of his royal priestly family and given gifts and graces that no amount of evil and darkness can destroy.

If you live within the parish boundaries or you are a member of our congregation, you are very welcome to have your child baptised at St Leonards Parish Church or to be baptised yourself. There are some people who live outside the parish, who have a particular link with St Leonards (e.g. parents who were married here etc.); under these circumstances we would be very happy to talk with you about baptising you or your child.

Baptism take place within the main Sunday Eucharist (10:00am) usually on the 4th Sunday of the month. As baptism is the entry rite into the Church of England, it is important for the baptism take place when the rest of the church family is present.

To enquire further, or to book a baptism do come and see us. We hold an open surgery in church every Saturday morning from 10:30am to 11:30am where one of the clergy will be present to meet with you.

Baptism is perfectly proper both for adults and children. A brief time of preparation and rehearsal is required with the parents of any infant being baptised. For an adult coming for baptism, this is usually combined with Confirmation (the giving of the gifts of the Spirit and taking of adult membership of the church) and would occur after a longer period of preparation.

Anyone who is already baptised who is interested in being prepared for Confirmation or just exploring their faith more deeply is welcome to contact the Vicar.