Baptism
If your baptism date at our church has been affected by COVID-19, please contact our Church Office
Introduction
“for all of you who were baptised into Christ have clothed yourself with Christ”
Galatians 3.27
Baptism, or Christening, is a special, important event for anyone - child or adult. A baptism service is not just a day of celebration for family members, relatives and friends – it marks the start of a life-long journey with God, in the company of other baptised Christians in his Church.
Every parent wants the best for their child in terms of happiness and personal fulfilment. So many parents, as part of their desires, want their a child to learn about God and what it means to know and love him. The Christian faith offers everyone the chance experience the love of God within the family of the church. Everyone at St Mary's Church will do all that they can to welcome and support you during and after the service.
Can I have a Baptism at St Mary's?
Ottery St Mary Parish Church has an 'open' baptism policy, which means that it does not like to say no! However, if you live outside the parish boundary, you are asked as a matter of courtesy to contact your local vicar or rector to inform them of your child's baptism taking place at this Parish Church.
What is Baptism?
Jesus began his ministry when he was baptised in the River Jordan. The heavens were opened up to him, he received God’s Spirit, and heard the voice of God telling him that he was the beloved child of God. Jesus commanded his followers to make new disciples and baptise them too.
We see baptism, (or christening) today as:
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An opportunity for a family to gather to celebrate and thank God for the new life which he has given.
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A time when we remember that as well as being a member of a human family your baby is a part of God's family too, the family of the Church.
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A 'sacrament' - an outward and visible sign of God's love.
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A reminder that we all need to turn away from the darkness of evil and make a new start with God
Should My Child Make the Decision?
Nobody should want to impose his or her will on others. However, a parent has to make decisions quite early on that affect their child's well-being and development. Why not support their spiritual nourishment and teach them about the love of God from an early age?
When they are old enough there is the opportunity for a person to choose for themselves whether they would like to understand more about the Christian faith and make an adult affirmation of faith at a Confirmation Service.
Your Baptism Service...
When do Baptisms Take Place?
Baptisms are normally performed on Sunday afternoons at 3 pm, although they can be done in a church service so the whole congregation can share in the event, or at other times by special arrangement.
Lord, we thank you
because by water and the Holy Spirit
you have made us a holy people
in Jesus Christ our Lord;
you raise us to new life in him
and renew in us the image of your glory.
Amen.