We are always pleased to talk with parents about the possibility of having their children baptised (or Christened – it’s the same thing) at St Andrew’s Church. In the first instance, please contact the Church warden, Peter Horton on horton20@btinternet.com if you would like to discuss this further. We hope some of the information below will help you to come to a decision.
When do baptisms take place?
We normally hold baptism services on a Sunday afternoon, but we are happy to discuss alternative times with you. We try to provide a separate service for each family as we think that this makes the occasion more personal. We do ask parents to come to the Family Service after their child has been baptised so that they can be welcomed into the family of the church and receive their baptism candle and certificate.
Do I have to live in Boreham to have my child baptised?
Not necessarily. We do normally like to know that there is some connection with the village – you may, for example, have lived here as a child, been married in the church or your parents might still live here. Basically, give us a call and we will see what we can do.
How much does it cost to have my child baptised?
Absolutely nothing! Baptism is a free gift whereby your child becomes a member of the worldwide Church.
We are not married. Does this matter?
The short answer is simply: no!
I don’t come to church regularly. Can I still have my child baptised?
Yes. However, you should be aware that the baptism service requires you to make solemn promises in the presence of God and your friends and family to turn to Christ and bring your child up in the family of the Church. We offer a number of different services and activities to help parents to keep these promises, but you still have to consider whether you are willing to commit to keeping your promises in the same way that you want your child to grow up to be a trustworthy person. We are always happy to talk with parents about the best way for them to be faithful to the vows they will make in the baptism service.
I am not sure about making promises. Can I still have a service in church for my child?
Yes. We can conduct a thanksgiving service. Your child will not have water poured over them, but there will be many prayers of thanksgiving to God for the gift of your child – and you will not be required to make any promises or commitments.
How many godparents do I need?
Traditionally a child would have three godparents – two of whom would be of the same gender as the baby. However, the minimum is two and we have baptised children with six! The godparents must be willing to make the same promises to follow Christ and support you in bringing your child to church. They must also be baptised themselves. If this is a problem, do give us a call. You can find out more information about the roles and responsibilities of godparents here.
Is there a minimum or maximum age for someone to be baptised?
No. We have baptised children as young as one month, and the current priest has also baptised someone who was 76. It is quite simply never too early or late to start the journey of faith and to discover how much you and your child is loved and valued by God.
Where can I find out more about the Christian faith?
If you would like to know more about Christianity so that you can be sure you are making the right decision in promising to bring your child up in this faith, we recommend the Re:Jesus website as a good starting point.
We would be happy to talk with you about any questions or issues that emerge as you discover more about Christianity.