A new life is precious and a gift from God. We would be delighted if you would like your child to be baptised (christened) at St George’s Toddington or at All Saints, Chalgrave.
Baptisms usually take place during the main Sunday morning service, with the congregation sharing in your joy and promising to play a part in encouraging and supporting you as you help your child to develop spiritually and learn about their faith. We promise to provide a safe and welcoming space for your family in Church and help you to feel comfortable in worship. Thanksgiving for the birth of a child We also offer special thanksgiving prayers following the birth a child and this is a lovely way to celebrate the arrival of a new baby with family and friends in church. Adult Baptism & Confirmation Adults too come to church to be christened and this can be a profoundly moving experience. We will offer some preparation beforehand, and the Bishop will be involved in confirming you soon afterwards. Our Priest-in-Charge will be happy to help you prepare to take this next exciting step. |
New life in the waters of BaptismThe font is a very important piece of church furniture. When someone wishes to be a follower of Jesus they come to the font to be baptised. It is here that new Christians are born. We say that we are 'christened’.
Jesus was baptised in the water of the River Jordan. Baptism means ‘plunging’ and to share in the newlife that Jesus offers we are plunged into the water of the Font at our own baptism. The font bowl is filled with water which is blessed and made holy. Some churches have fonts which are large enough for people to be submerged completely under the water. Our font bowl is quite small and so water is poured generously over the head of the person being baptised. The water has symbolic meaning: it washes away and drowns out everything which prevents us from having a close relationship with God. When we are baptised with water we are born anew. It is through our baptism that we share in the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The Holy Spirit breathes new life into our hearts so that we are able to grow in likeness to Jesus. The large candle which stands next to the font reminds us that Jesus is the Light of the World. When we are baptised God asks us to reflect that light as we journey through life. |
