Rector's Letter

Home  Contact   Calendar   Help at Special Times  Music  Services   Sermons

		Your Child's Baptism We are delighted that you are considering having your child baptised. Your child’s baptism is a very important occasion both for the Church and for your family, and one that we, at St. Mary’s, take very seriously. Baptisms in St. Mary’s take place either within the main service at 10am or at a special baptism service at 12 noon.

We hope that it will be a happy and memorable time for all concerned and, like everything else important in life, your child’s Baptism will require careful planning and preparation. 

Your first step is to visit or telephone the Parish Office to let us know that you are considering a baptism.  We will take your contact details and arrange for a member of our baptism team to visit you at home.  They will explain what our church offers for children and young people and also let you know the next steps in the process of preparing for the baptism.

This will include attending a regular Sunday service and also a preparation meeting with the priest who will be baptising your child.

Please do not hesitate to contact us at the Parish Office  (01799 506024) or email: office@stmaryssaffronwalden.org if you have any questions or if you need any more information.   

Questions that are often asked

Who can be a godparent?
You should have at least three godparents: two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite sex. Godparents can be family members or friends. However, it is important that you choose people who will take an interest in your child's spiritual welfare and who will pray for you and your child. They should be baptised themselves and mature enough to act as a godparent.

What happens if one of the godparents can’t come to the Baptism?
Of course, they will make every effort to come if they possibly can but sometimes this is impossible.  This doesn’t stop them from being a godparent.

We’re not married – can our child still be baptised?
We are pleased to baptise your child if you are not married.  Of course, if you would like to discuss the possibility of getting married, the Rector would be delighted to talk to you.

Can older children or adults be baptised?
Yes, it is never too late.  Have a word with the Rector about the way in which the preparation and service would be adapted to your particular needs.  Adults are normally baptised as part of their preparation for confirmation.

We don’t live in Saffron Walden—can we have our baby baptised here ?
It is usual to have your baby baptised in the parish where you live so that your child can be welcomed and grow in your local church family. However, if there are particular reasons why you would like to have the baptism here (e.g. family links), it may be possible to arrange with the agreement of your own local minister.

Baptisms in the Village Churches.
If you live in Littlebury, Littlebury Green, Wendens Ambo, Little Walden, Sewards End, Ashdon or Hadstock you may have your baby baptised in the village church.  We have the same procedures for booking your baptism and you should call the Parish Office or talk to your local priest in the first instance.

What does it cost?
The baptism service is free.

Click here to return to Help at Special Times.