Baptism

Baptism or christening is the means by which we become members of Christ's Church. It is the special way that Christ gave us to unite us to Himself, and it is a powerful and joyful sign of God’s love for us, and our response to that love. For that reason it is something we ask you to take seriously, whether you are the parent of a child to be baptised, or an adult candidate.

Parents and godparents of children, or adult candidates themselves, make solemn promises to God in the course of the Baptism service: to believe in God, to follow Christ and to be a practising member of the Church. These are the ways in which we respond to the call of God: the ways in which all Christian people grow in faith. That is why at least one parent should be baptised, and so should godparents, who will help to guide their godchildren in the way of faith.

Anyone who lives within St Mary’s parish or is on its Electoral Roll is welcome to have their child baptised here; if you do not live in the parish, you should contact your own parish clergy. If you are in any doubt, why not contact us first. Further information can be obtained through the Parish Office (phone 020 7254 6072 from Tuesday to Friday between 9am and 5pm).

Baptisms take place on Sunday mornings either at our All Age Eucharist at 9.30am or the Sung Eucharist at 11am. Please enquire. You are welcome to invite your families and friends, of whatever denomination or faith. Christians from other churches who normally receive communion are welcome to join us in our Eucharist.

Confirmation
Confirmation is the completion of baptism. At St Mary’s, children who have been baptised may be admitted to communion after a course of preparation. As they become older, baptised children should also consider confirmation.

Every year, usually after Easter, we run confirmation classes both for children and for adults who have not yet been confirmed. These are an opportunity to think through the meaning of Christian faith, leading into a great service of celebration with the Bishop of Stepney, Adrian Newman.

If you would like to consider confirmation, please contact the Rector.