In the recent past it was obligatory for at least one, if not both parents, to be active members of a church. Some baptisms were agreed on the understanding that one or both parents would attend a class for new members as the first stage in joining the church. However in 2003 the regulations changed. Now it is possible to have a child baptised whether or not the parents are members of a church providing there is a clear undertaking, on the part of the parents or guardians, to bring the child up in the Christian Faith. [Click photo to enlarge].

The time of the baptism will be arranged with the Minister. At present baptisms are usually held on the first Sunday in the month at the 9.45am 'Worship Now' morning service. The Minister will meet with the parents on a day, or an evening, in the week prior to the baptism taking place. At this meeting it is usual for the parents to bring with them their child's birth certificate on which the date of the baptism, the officiating minister, the church and declaration that the child has been baptised, will be recorded.

The Service of Baptism consists of the Preaching of the Word followed by the Sacrament of Baptism. At the time of baptism. the parents will promise to bring their child up in the Christian Faith and the child will be baptised in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. The entire family are then welcomed into the family of the Church. Extended family members and friends are very welcome to attend the service. (Left; Photo of Font).

The Blessing Ceremony also takes place during the 9.45am 'Worship Now' service following a similar pattern to the Baptism Ceremony, except the wording is different, the promises are different and no water is used. This ceremony requires no commitment or expression of religious belief on the part of the parents. More information about Blessings can be had from the minister.