Arrange a child's Baptism?

Christening/Baptism

at St Thomas of Canterbury Parish Church, Brentwood.

Christening is a common name for what is properly called Baptism. This is a holy Sacrament- the outward sign of water points to a deeper reality (cleansing from sin and being joined to Christ and his Church). There is no set age for baptism: at St Thomas's,  we are happy to baptise all members of our church and their families, as well as those who live in our parish.

We offer a 'package' for parents wishing to have their children baptised:

The first step is to make contact, ideally by dropping in to the Church Centre or telephoning  (01277 201094)  during the Wednesday evening surgery hour, from 7pm-8pm, and speaking to one of the clergy.  At this initial meeting we will try and find a date for the baptism service and you will also be asked to start thinking about who will be godparents if you haven't already done so, the main requirement being that they must be baptised too and are willing to take on this responsibility.

Second, one of our baptism familly visiting team will visit you at home - this team consists of our church members who will aim to tell you something about what St Thomas's has to offer young children and parents, as well as try and answer questions you may have about baptism and our church.

Third, you will be invited to attend a baptism preparation evening, usually during the week before the Baptism.

Fourth, is the service itself.

Fifth, you will be invited to the 10am Eucharist the following Sunday, during which there will be a short welcome for the baptised children.

The 'package' does not end there - we hope that you will see baptism as a beginning not an end, and that you will continue to regard yourself and your child as part of your church community, by worshipping with us, joining in our family activities, and in time coming to confirmation.