Baptisms 

Since Jesus was baptised in the river Jordon by John the Baptist, Baptism  as marked the beginning of a journey, a journey with God and this continues for the rest of our life, the first step in response to God’s love. It is a joyful moment in which we rejoice in being called to be children of God, and at the baptism of a child parents and godparents make for that little one solemn promises and declarations of Christian Faith.

The Baptism Service paints many vivid pictures of the Christian journey. The Sign of the Cross, the badge of the Christian faith, reminds us of Christ’s death for us. ‘Drowning’ in the water of Baptism unites us to Christ’s dying and rising. Water is also a sign of life in its fullness which God wishes for us. 

As a sign of the new life that is offered, a lighted candle is given to one of the godparents – a picture of the light of Christ which conquers the darkness of evil. All who are baptised are to walk in the light of Christ for the whole of their lives.

Here at Ss Chad and James we are glad to offer the Baptism of Children freely. Just come to St Chad’s Church on a Friday evening at 6.00pm were bookings are taken. We will see what dates are available for the Christening, and at the same time fix up the date for your child to be blessed in preparation for Baptism (usually at the 11.00am Family Mass on the first Sunday of the month for St. Chad’s, 9:30am at St James’) and when parents and godparents receive a short instruction about the meaning of the Baptism Service and their obligations. Baptism normally takes place at 1.00pm on a Sunday, afternoon, however if another day is more convenient it could take place then.