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baptism:
Many parents of no
or little faith often ask if their child can be baptised. Often they
are refused by many of the main stream churches who feel it is not
appropriate to baptise the children of those who are not regular members.
There are also
those who would like to be baptised at a later stage in life but do
not know who to turn to.
On Call priests
will baptise anyone who comes with a genuine desire to be baptised
themselves or have their children baptised. It will be a baptism into
the worldwide Christian family and be non-denominational.
Baptism should not
be entered into without some prior thought and reflection.
Part of a typical
baptism service can be found below.
It lists the
questions a priest will ask and the responses from those taking part
- parents, godparents, the candidate if they are of an age to respond
themselves and other members of the family and friends. Those taking
part in a baptism service should be be aware that these questions are
asked before God and there is a commitment on each persons part to
uphold those promises made.
typical
example:
The
priest asks the parents and godparents
Will
you be responsible for seeing that the child you present is brought
up in the Christian faith and life?
Parents
and Godparents
I
will, with God's help.
Priest
Will
you by your prayers and witness help this child to grow into the
full stature of Christ?
Parents
and Godparents
I
will, with God's help.
Then
the priest asks the following questions
(1)
of the candidate(s) who can speak for themselves,
(2)
or of the parents and godparents who speak on behalf of the infants
and younger children
Do
you renounce Satan and all the spiritual forces of wickedness that
rebel against God?
Candidate/Parents
and Godparents
I
renounce them.
Priest
Do
you renounce the evil powers of this world which corrupt and destroy
the creatures of God?
Candidate/Parents
and Godparents
I
renounce them.
Priest
Do
you renounce all sinful desires that draw you from the love of God?
Candidate/Parents
and Godparents
I
renounce them.
Priest
Do
you turn to Jesus Christ and accept him as your Saviour?
Candidate/Parents
and Godparents
I
do.
Priest
Do
you put your whole trust in his grace and love?
Candidate/Parents
and Godparents
I
do.
Priest
to all assembled
Will
you who witness these vows do all in your power to support these
persons in their life in Christ?
People
We
will.
If
you feel that you can answer these questions in good conscience and
with honest intent then there should be no reason why a baptism
cannot be arranged with an On Call priest.
Christening,
the baptism and naming of a child can include a blessing, prayers,
readings and music. This can take place as an informal family
gathering in the home or village hall, or as a more formal service in
a church. Christening services are usually quite simple services but
there are many variations that can include local traditions and customs.
If it is felt that
this is not the way forward, there are other alternatives and On Call
priests will be happy to discuss these and any other options with you.
Dedication
services can be appropriate for those who do not feel that they, in
faith, cannot accept the principle of child baptism but wish to make
a public declaration of their intent to bring up their new child as a
Christian. There is no set form to this kind of service but may
contain all the elements of a 'traditional' service (readings,
prayers, hymns and songs, psalms or poetry and a short talk). The
main focus would be on the promises made by the parents. On Call
priests are usually very happy to work with parents in putting
together a dedication service.
Thanksgiving
services for the new life of a child, an adoption, or following a
difficult birth may also be another alternative to consider. This is
a completely open form of liturgy in the sense of there are 'no
rules' as to what needs to be included. It should be a happy service
that has something for everyone. It is a good idea to plan a
thanksgiving service with your On Call priest as they will be able to
advise you how to balance the service whilst keeping keeping it an
enjoyable family event.
If you feel you
are still unsure or want further advice, please talk to your local On
Call priest or e-mail.
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