The Christening (or Baptism) of a child is always a very joyful occasion. You can find out much more about Baptism here.

Whilst it is always good to have the opportunity to welcome a child into the church family at the regular Sunday service we appreciate that 9am on a Sunday morning won't work for everyone, especially if family and friends are traveling to join you. We will work with you to find the time that works best in your situation.

Please complete the Baptism application form which you can find here.

Older children and adults are normally Confirmed following their Baptism as they have made the Baptismal promises for themselves. In this special service the Bishop recognizes the newly Baptized as part of the church family.

What is it all about?

Asking to have a child christened of baptized (another name for the same occasion) demonstrates that you want God to have a real influence in the child’s life – not just on Christening Day, but for ever. At Baptism, God pours his Spirit into us (demonstrated by the ‘washing’ with water)and we become truly his (symbolized by being ‘signed’ with a cross).

So the person being christened becomes Christ’s and a member of Christ’s family, the Church. Being part of the church and sharing in its worship, learning and service over many years means that we grow in understanding about what it means to be a Christian and are strengthened in our witness and service. What we hope for is to be close to God – now and in Heaven, once this earthly life is over.

How can I arrange this?

Contact the Vicar, The Reverend Helen O’Sullivan (01665 712002) to talk things through in plenty of time in advance. Normally you must live within the parish of Shilbottle, or attend worship here regularly or have had some contact with the church in the past. We will invite you to come and worship with us, invite you and the godparents to a preparation session and have given you options of when the service can take place.

A child being christened, usually has godparents – perhaps up to three, but at least one. Godparents have themselves to have been baptized.

What happens after the service?

We hope that you will continue to bring your children to worship with us and play a full part as members of the Church family.

We can baptize people of any age, though by the age of 12 on-wards, we’d expect this to be followed by Confirmation, usually at the same ceremony.

For further information about Baptism, see the Church of England’s website – www.churchofengland.christenings.org

We will do our best to make this a joyful and memorable day for you and your family and friends!