Baptisms
A baptism is the cause of great celebration in our community. It marks the start of Christian life, the beginning of a journey of faith.
It involves becoming a member of both the local and the worldwide Christian community.
Please get in touch if this is something that you would like to think about for yourself, or for your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Baptism the same as Christening?
Yes. At baptism, through the power of the Holy Spirit, we are ‘christened’ or made Christ’s.
Can I or my child be baptised in your church?
We welcome all enquiries about baptism from people who live in our parish. Please get in touch and we can explore the idea further.
Is there any preparation?
Yes. At present it involves a visit to people in their own homes where what is involved can be discussed informally. We’ll do our best to answer any questions you might have.
How do I book a date for the baptism?
Either come along to one of our services or give us a ring on 020 8985 5145.
How much does it cost?
There is no cost. People are free to make a donation to the church if they would like to.
How do I choose Godparents?
Being a godparent is a special role. It's about helping a child to come to know God, encouraging them in their spiritual life and supporting them in their membership of the local church. Ideally godparents should be baptised and confirmed. You can still be a godparent if you are not confirmed, but you do have to have been baptised. With this in mind, you can choose either friends or family. The church recommends choosing three godparents: two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite sex. The minimum requirement is one godmother and one godfather.
What happens at the baptism?
Baptisms in our church take place during the main 10am Sunday morning service. We ask for people to be in church by 9.50am and to come and sit near the front of the church with the godparents sitting nearby. The baptism takes place half way through the service when everyone is invited to gather around the font at the back of church. At the end of the service the person who has been baptised (or one of their godparents) will be presented with a lighted candle representing the light of Christ.
How long does the service last?
About an hour and a quarter.
What happens after the baptism?
Baptism is the start of Christian life. Following the baptism, we invite you to join the Christian community here at St John of Jerusalem and we rejoice that those who have been baptised are members of the worldwide Christian community. We pray that, in time, those who have been baptised might choose to be confirmed and to start receiving Holy Communion.
For more information please see:
http://www.churchofengland.org/weddings-baptisms-funerals/baptism-confirmation.aspx