What is baptism?

Baptism (Christening) is the outward sign of a person becoming a Christian.

Since ancient times the church has baptised both adults and children. The only difference in the service is that adults will make a declaration of faith for themselves, whereas children who are too young to do so, have godparents make the declarations on their behalf.

Baptism is often called ‘new birth’ and like the birth of a child, it is always a joyful occasion, as we celebrate God’s gift to us of a new brother or sister. Every baptised person is a part of Christ’s mystical body, the church, and is adopted by God as his beloved child. Teaching children and adults to understand and claim the spiritual privileges given them in baptism is a solemn task: the whole church family is ready to help parents and godparents in this great work.