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  • a parents’ guide to christenings

    During the christening your child will be baptized. It’s the first step of an amazing journey with God, parents, godparents, friends, family and the church. You don't have to have been christened yourself, and you don't have to have been a regular churchgoer. Start exploring the possibilities here.
  • Christenings and coronavirus

    Now that christenings are possible again, you can begin to make plans. This page explains how christenings will still be special even though they’ll be a little different.

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  • Priest pouring water into font

    What is a christening?

    During a christening your child will be baptized with water. It’s the start of an amazing journey of faith for your child and a special day for all your friends and family. Follow the links to find answers to your questions and to explore all that a christening means, not just on the day but long afterwards.

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  • Vicar

    Contacting the church

    One of the first things you will need to do is be in touch with your local church. Whether you speak to an administrator, a friendly parent like you from the church, or the vicar, they will be glad to hear from you. Find out more about what you can expect when you make that call.

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  • Priest at front of church with parents and godparents standing behind her.

    Choosing godparents

    Godparents are really important. Choosing them is one of the biggest decisions you will make. Whether you are still thinking or have already asked some special friends, discover more about what it means to be or have godparents. Whether you have questions about gifts or want to explore the promises, there are answers to your questions here.

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  • Baby holding hands of parent

    Preparing for the big day

    Getting ready for your child’s christening is exciting. But there’s also a lot to think about and do. Whether you have done this before or not, read on for some helpful ideas and tips.

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  • Baby is baptized

    The service step by step

    Discover exactly what will happen during a christening service with our unique step-by-step guide. The guide takes you from the moment of welcome at the beginning through all the different things that happen.

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  • Family walking through field

    After a Christening

    The party’s over, the balloons are down and the outfit is packed away. But the amazing journey of faith continues. Find out here some simple ideas to help as life settles down and your child begins to grow up.

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  • Congregation in church

    Thanksgiving services

    There is a special, but simple, service of thanksgiving, which is a lovely time when you can be with friends and family, ask for God’s blessing and pray for your baby. It’s different from a christening so read on to discover whether this is something to explore further with your local church.

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  • Cross on top of church

    Frequently asked questions

    Find answers to frequently asked questions about christenings. Or ask your own question if it hasn’t already been answered.

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  • Image of parent and child's feet

    Continuing the journey

    There are lots of ways to continue the amazing journey of faith as a family. It’s not just about special times, but about the ordinary times of wonder, love and joy – and the times when things go wrong. The candle given at the christening reminds us that a child shines as a light in the world – and also that God is always with us.

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  • candle

    Light a candle

    Lighting a candle is a great way to pray for a child who has been, or will be, christened. Lighting a candle is a great way to do that, either here or in a church.

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  • Vicar and children around font

    Stories

    News, blogs, stories, events and other helpful things

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