Baptism is a very important event. At Rainham Parish and Wennington Parish Church we invite those wishing to be baptised (whether children or adults) to join us on Sunday mornings for our Service (Wennington 10am/Rainham 10.30am) so they get the feel of who we are etc. (The Baptism itself takes place during a morning service).

Baptism is about being part of the church family and understanding what the Christian faith is about and entering into that relationship with God through Jesus Christ. We are here to encourage one another and support one another in that. Regular Church attendance is therefore an important part of that process.

With regard to the baptism of children, it is important that parents and Godparents understand the commitment and promises they will make on behalf of their child but also take opportunity themselves to grow in that relationship with Jesus. Part of this includes the need to participate in some Baptism preparation which we will organise with you. (With regard to Godparents, we suggest a maximum of 4 who should be baptised and practicing Christians). Once we’ve done that, then we talk about potential baptism dates.

Your details will be passed on to Revd David Stainer, our Associate Minister, who will be in touch after you’ve filled in the form and come along to a service, to invite you to a Baptism Preparation course. Once we’ve done that, then we will talk about potential baptism dates.

Naming And Blessing

Alternatively, if parents find they are not able to make the commitment at this time, we can offer a naming & blessing of the child as a starting point that can move onto, or lead into a fuller commitment to Baptism itself. A naming & blessing is not a Baptism, it involves the minister simply praying a blessing over the child, and as such it does not involve godparents.

Cost

Our fee for the issue of a Baptism Certificate issued at the time is £14. A record of the occasion is provided by the gift from the Church of two Baptism cards showing the names of all concerned, and a Baptismal candle. Extra Baptism Cards may be ordered for godparents and grandparents at a cost of £2.50 each.

There is no charge for a naming & blessing.