Christenings/Baptisms 

At a Christening, also known as a Baptism, we welcome a new person into the family of the Church.  Many people are baptised when they are babies, but you can be baptised at any age.  Baptism marks the beginning of a lifelong journey of faith as part of the local and worldwide Christian family.

There is a list of commonly asked questions below.  For any more information or if you have any more questions, then please get in touch and we will do our best to answer them.  Further information on Christenings in the Church of England can be found here.



Can I have my child baptised at St Michael's?

You are more than welcome to have your child baptised at St Michael’s if you live in the parish or are a member of our worshipping community.  If you are not sure whether you live in the parish, a parish map can be found here.  If you're interested in exploring having a baptism at St Michael's, please come along to one of our 10am services, join us for refreshments in the Windhill Churches Centre afterwards and make yourself known to the Vicar for an informal chat.

How much does it cost?

A baptism service is absolutely free!  However, if you wish to have a full baptism certificate, there is a cost of £18 for this.

What happens at the service?

At the baptism of a baby or infant, parents and godparents make important declarations, for themselves and on behalf of the child, about what they believe and they make promises about how they will bring up the child.  At the baptism of a child who is old enough to understand the ceremony, or of an adult, the baptism candidate makes the declarations and promises for themselves.  The priest makes the sign of the cross on the candidate's forehead and they are then baptised in the font with a little water, “in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.”

Shortly before a baptism, the priest who is taking the service will meet with you to explain what will happen on the day, but before then, you can take a step-by-step look at a Christening service by clicking here. 



What about godparents?

If you are having your child baptised at St Michael's you will need to choose godparents for them.  Godparents need to have been baptised themselves as they make important promises on behalf of your child to help and support them in their journey of faith.  You will need to choose at least two godparents, and no more than four.  At least one godparent needs to be of the opposite gender to the child being baptised.

Light a candle

If you know someone who is soon to be christened, and would like to pray for them, then please do so!  You can light a virtual candle, as a symbol of that prayer, here.