What Happens?

In the service parents and godparents make public promises to help the child grow up know God. It is a big responsibility for parents and so godparents are chosen who will take an interest in helping with this. At St Giles every effort is taken to help parents who enquire about Baptism because it is only the beginning of something very special.

Who can be baptised at St Giles?  

Anyone can be baptised provided that they have not been baptised before and live within the parish boundaries.

St Giles Church exercises a pastoral care over all those who live within the parish boundaries. It is your church and we are delighted to baptise children (or adults). The marital status of the parents is not a bar because it is the child who is being baptised.

Who will take the Service?

John Horton, the Curate, will conduct the service.

When does it take place?

Baptisms take place usually at 4.00 pm on the last Sunday of the month.  Occasionally  parents request that the baptism takes place during the morning service and this can be arranged if desired.

What does it cost?

Baptism is completely free! Families may wish to make a voluntary contribution to the large costs of running the church.

How do I book a Baptism?

The first step is to call in at Parish Office which is held in the Church on certain Tuesday evenings between 6.30 pm and 7.30 pm (the dates when Parish Office is held in 2010 can be seen by clicking here).  A member of the congregation will invite you to a meeting with other parents at the church. This will last approximately an hour and there will be an opportunity to learn more about Baptism and what happens at the service. We want the service to be as meaningful and special as possible and this time together helps parents to prepare. If, at the end of this meeting, you would like to attend the Family Service the following Sunday, you will see more of the life of St Giles. Those wishing to book a Baptism can do so after this service where coffee will be served.  To save time the necessary paperwork can be downloaded by clicking here.