Baptisms at St Augustine’s (sometimes known as Christenings) usually take place on Sunday, either in the 11 am (main Service) or later in the day at around 1 pm.
We welcome anyone who wishes to be baptised, babies, children, and adults.
During the baptismal service, water is poured over the head of the person being baptised. Three times this is done “in the Name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit”, and a cross is marked with holy oil on the forehead. This is an ancient symbol ‘marking’ us as Christ’s with a symbol of his life, death, and rising from death.
A lit candle is also given, a simple, but effective reminder that we are to follow the light of Christ in the life we live.
During the service, promises are made. These promises focus on what it means to be a Christian and take the form of questions and answers by which one affirms the decision to follow in the way of Christ.
For those not of age to make their own promises, their parents, along with Godparents or Sponsors, may offer them on their behalf.
If you would like to learn more about the promises that are made, please follow the Link below to the Baptismal Liturgy found on the Scottish Episcopal Church’s website.
Holy Baptism 2006 – The Scottish Episcopal Church (anglican.org)
All those who are baptised are welcome to receive the bread and wine at communion.
Baptisms normally take place in churches, though they don’t have to. For young people and adults sometimes a river, or the sea, or a local swimming pool might be chosen.
Whatever the case baptism marks a new starting point for the person who is being baptised and it is the task of everyone around that person to support them in the new Christian life they are to live.
For parents wanting to mark the birth of their child and to give thanks to God for them, but not ready to make the step of baptism, there is a simple, lovely Service of Thanksgiving to celebrate the gift of your new child!
If you would like to know more about baptism for yourself or someone else or have any questions, please contact us.
