What is Baptism ?

It is a sign of belonging to the Church. The water of Baptism is a reminder that God can wash away all our sins and mistakes - and so bring renewal to our lives, if we want: as water transforms a parched desert. Baptism is a sacrament that unites all who are Christened into the death and then rising to new life of Jesus.

Water is poured onto the Baptism candidate; they are signed with a Cross on the forehead with Holy Oil (an ancient symbol of the power and the love of God as Holy Spirit); and they receive a candle, a symbol of Jesus Christ as Light of the World.

A Christening also has the "spin-off" effect of giving thanks for a new human life, and welcoming that new human into the circle of family and friends, and the wider community. NB: It is possible to have a "Thanksgiving for a Child" liturgy if you do not wish for the Sacrament of Baptism at this time.

Philip, the parish priest (01484 863232), or a member of our Baptism Team will visit you to explain things more, to explore the faith further, and to listen to your comments/suggestions. The following information may be of use:

When do Christenings take place ?

1) Baptism's can take place during the main Service in St Aidan's church, usually on the third Sunday of the month, at 10.00am. The whole Service lasts about an hour. Visitors, including any family or friends you invite, are welcome to share Holy Communion (please let them know that); and we especially invite you to bring your child to the Altar for a Blessing when folk come forward to receive Communion.

If a small child is really upset (especially during a talk or reading) feel free to take him/her out for a moment. However, as long as they are happy and safe, don't worry. You do not have to hold them in one seat for a whole Service, we know children rarely sit still for an hour. We provide books and toys for children, and they can bring their own books and (quiet!) toys.

2) Baptism's can also take place as a separate one-off Service, usually during Sunday lunchtime/afternoon at a time convenient to the family and to Philip. This liturgy lasts about 20 minutes. Most folk do not have hymns at such a Service - but if you would like to sing any, please let us know in plenty of time so that we can try to arrange a organist/musician (to whom you may be asked to pay a fee), or possibly provide CD accompaniment.

At the separate Service you are welcome to invite (willing!) members of your family or friends to read the two readings in the Christening text, otherwise Philip will read them. If there are any poems/readings that are appropriate to your child that you would like to add to the separate Service, please feel free to let us know.

Please do not book a date/time for a Baptism until you have asked Philip

What about Godparents ?

Traditionally three Godparents are chosen (two of the same sex as the child) - but it is more important that you chose people who will be caring friends to your child without interfering in your family life. The gender and exact number of Godparents is not as important as choosing the right people.

Sometimes a person under 18 years old may become a Godparent, but it might be best to check any particular suggestion with Philip. A friend who belongs to another religion can not be a Christian Godparent, but might be made a "Soul Friend" to provide loving support for your child/ren.

Can we take photographs ?

At the main Sunday Mass you are welcome to take photographs or a video during the Baptism, when we are at the back of church round the Font. But we would be grateful if no photo's/video's are taken of other parts of the Service.

You are welcome to have a friend video/photo the whole of a separate Christening Service, if you wish.

How much does it cost ?

Nothing - there is no fee for Baptism (except for the musician/organist if wanted at a separate Service). We don't mind accepting voluntary donations, but there is no charge!

What about the Font ?

St Aidan's Font was made over 900 years ago in about 1080 AD, one of the last Anglo-Saxon carvings of the period just after the Norman Invasion. This Font was created for the first church at High Hoyland, but it was thrown out in the 18th Century and used as a cattle trough! Only in 1895 was it restored to its ancient and proper purpose when rescued for use in St Aidan's Church, which was being built then.

Well over two thousand Christenings have taken place here since Easter Sunday 1895 - we can only guess how many folk were Baptised in the Font during the long centuries of the medieval era. It is a privilege to be part of such a long tradition.

What else do we need to know ?

Please feel free to ask Philip or a Baptism Team member anything you wish to check. You may find other information of interest elsewhere on this parish website.

You might also enjoy the Toddler Group in church on Tuesday mornings between 9.45am & 11.15am in school term time. Please feel free to check with us when the Toddler Group is meeting; but you do not have to book, just turn up.

You are very welcome to any of our Services. Children are welcome in y/our Church.: We know that no-one has to share in Worship, so we are pleased to welcome you and your child/ren. We are delighted to state that God loves you and everyone utterly and totally, whether Baptised/Christened or not.

Shouldn't we leave the decision to the child when they grow up ?

There is no neutral position. To Baptise your child is making a decision, making a statement. And not Christening your child is equally making a statement, making a decision for them.

Baptising a child is not forcing religion "down their throats". Christening is a way of sharing something of God's love with a child. They are free to respond to that love later, if they make the choice to confirm their Faith, perhaps through the sacrament of Confirmation.

When we teach our children not to ride their bike down the middle of the road, or teach them not to be cruel to the cat; we are not so much limiting their lives/freedom, as giving them guidance which will liberate them and help them grow into their full potential as human beings. The same is true when we accept Baptism for them.

Philip (parish priest)