ST James Church

A baptism or christening is principally the initiation rite of the Church - in other words when we baptize someone (adult or child) they are being admitted to membership of the Church.

In the case of babies or children, the ceremony involves the parents and godparents making very clear promises that they will pray for the child and help them take their place as worshipping members of the church.

This is a serious commitment, and may not suit all parents, and we are always very happy to offer, as an alternative, a simple service of thanksgiving for the birth of a child.

If you are clear that you do wish to have your child christened, you will be asked to attend a preparation meeting at church to talk about what it means to be a Christian, and being a member of the church. This is usually at 2 pm on the last Sunday of the month preceeding the service, in St. James

You should also be aware that the Canon Law of the Church of England normally requires godparents to be both baptized and confirmed. It is possible in some circumstances to waive the requirement about confirmation for some (but not all) of the godparents, but the requirement about baptism cannot be disregarded in any circumstances.

The Service is usually on the 2nd and 3rd Sunday of each month at 12 noon, in St. James' Church.

First anniversary of baptism cards are issued by a Parish Member and funded by the Parish Mothers Union, as part of a national Mothers Union Initiative.