The wonder of new life…
The birth of a baby is a life-changing event. Even those who would not call themselves ‘religious’, use words like ‘miraculous’ to describe the amazement and wonder of new life. The gift of a baby, through birth or adoption, inspires many of us to make a response to God, the giver of life. We would like to help you make the response that is right for you and your family.
For you created my inmost being;
…..you knit me together in my mother’s womb.
I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made;
…..your works are wonderful, I know that full well.
Psalm 139:13-14
A service of Thanksgiving and Blessing, gives the opportunity to say “Thank You” to God, to pray for you and your family and to ask for God’s blessing. There are no baptismal promises to be made but there is an opportunity to name your child and to publicly recognise ‘supporting friends’ who agree to help you in the bringing up of your child.
Baptisms on Application; Baptism is a sacrament, through which we are joined to Christ and to his Church. The water that is used symbolizes the washing away of our sins and of our dying to an old way of life and rising to a new one. Parents and Godparents make important promises to turn to Christ, to repent of their sins and to renounce evil. They affirm their belief in the Christian faith and promise, with God’s help, to attend public worship regularly and live faithfully as a Christian disciple. It is a serious, but joyful, undertaking, we will encourage you to attend worship so that you will better understand the commitment you are making.
Whether you want to consider a service of Thanksgiving and Blessing or Baptism, you are assured of a warm welcome. We will explain what the services mean and encourage you to explore and grow in your faith with your child.
What if I don’t live in the parish? Where someone lives outside of the parishes of Lympne or Saltwood the Rector will want to discuss where you already worship. A Service of Thanksgiving is always possible irrespective of residence.