We are delighted that you want to have your child baptised and we
welcome the possibility of celebrating the baptism at St Columba’s,
Scarborough.
This page is designed to give you some key information about baptism
and to answer some of the questions you may have.
If you think you would like to take the next step and discuss these
matters further, please call the Parish Office. We look forward to
meeting with you.
What is baptism?
Baptism is a simple ceremony of washing in water accompanied by
words. It is the way in which children and adults become members of
the Christian Church. It is a sign of turning to God, and of faith
in Jesus Christ. Baptism has been practised by Christians since the
time of Jesus.
Is baptism the same as Christening?
Yes, the same. Christening is a popular term used by many people but
the church usually uses the word baptism which comes from the Greek
word meaning to dip or soak.
Who can be baptised?
Anyone. All who are baptised are welcomed into the Christian Church.
What is necessary for baptism?
Baptism is something God does for us. God offers us new life through
the Holy Spirit. This is what we pray for when we are baptised. The
one essential thing for a person being baptised is to have faith in
Jesus Christ. In the case of a baby, the response of faith is made
in the name of the infant by his or her parents and godparents or
sponsors.
Who can be godparents?
Godparents are members of the Church who have already been baptised.
They may be either the parents themselves or others close to the
family who are interested in the child’s spiritual nurture. A
godparent should be able to answer yes to these two questions:
Are you a follower of Jesus Christ and a member of his church?
Are you willing to sponsor this child, answer for him or her now,
and share responsibility for his or her Christian upbringing?
How many godparents?
A boy usually has two godfathers and one godmother—reverse for a
girl, but you can have any number of godparents of either gender.
When does baptism take place?
At St Columba’s baptism usually takes place at our 9am service on
Sunday morning. This means that the whole congregation is there to
welcome the newly-baptised person into the Christian church and pray
for them.
What promises are made?
Three promises are made by the candidate, or by the parents and
godparents when the candidate is a child:
To reject all that is opposed to God
To believe and trust in God as the one who made us,
in Jesus as the one who makes us whole,
and in the Holy Spirit who gives us life
To obey God and follow God’s leading in our lives.
What preparation is required?
We ask you to take part in a short series of preparation sessions
called Journey to Baptism. This will introduce you to vital aspects
of Christian life and faith.
What does baptism cost?
Baptism is a free gift of God. No fee is charged. If you wish you
may make a thank offering, either through the collection plate
during the service or in some other way.
What else can we do?
Pray for your child. Baptism is not just a naming ceremony, or a
welcoming event. It is the beginning of a whole new relationship
with God. It is an occasion for you, your family and home, to begin
experiencing afresh the wonderful new and full life God offers us in
Jesus Christ. The best thing you can do is join them on the journey.
What do we do next?
If you would like to know more about baptism at St Columba’s, please
call our Parish Office. If you leave your contact details our Parish
Priest or a Lay Pastoral Minister will contact you soon.
A prayer
Wonderful God, thank you for the gifts of life and love.
Give us wisdom to guide our child in the way of Jesus,
leading us to a deep and full life,
and helping our home to be a place of peace and joy. Amen.
