At Fakenham Church we have a welcoming approach to baptism and are only too delighted that you have made the decision to have your child baptised.
Baptisms usually take place either in the morning service or on a Sunday afternoon but can take place any day of the week. During the morning service there is a special Order of Service and a cake provided by the Mothers’ Union with the child’s name on it. Quite often other members of the family would like to be baptised, and this is a suitable time for a family occasion. Seats will be reserved for the family, but friends will sit with the body of the church.
Services in the morning service last about 1 hour, and in the afternoon about 30 minutes. Photography is allowed under the guidance of the Rector. The church has some parking for the disabled as well as baby changing unit. The church is very child friendly.
All families are visited at home by the Rector so as to prepare them for this very special day.
The choice of Godparents is important and it is helpful if those chosen have a contact with the church or an understanding of what baptism is. Traditionally three Godparents are chosen, and it is important to have Godparents young enough so that they will support the child in the first years of their life.
There is no charge but a collection will be taken at the service. The cost of baptisms outside of the church service is high so any donations from the family and guests will be appreciated. Yellow gift aid envelopes are available in church.
To obtain an application form please contact the Parish Office 01328 862268 or download an application form here (.pdf file – 375kb).
Baptism Preparation
In September the first baptism preparation meeting took place. The Trinity Room was full of parents with their children as they began their preparation for their children’s baptism.
At the meeting parents learnt more about the service, including the baptism vows, walked the church and generally looked forward to the day.
Numerous questions were asked including selecting Godparents and how long the service would be. The Rector also spoke about baptism follow-up which includes Stepping Stones, Bridges Family Service and Messy Church. Also all families receive a card on the anniversary of the baptism of their child.
The next baptism preparation morning will be on Saturday 6th July 2013 at 10am. Anyone can attend this preparation morning. It is for people who are having their children baptised and also those who are thinking about having their children baptised.
The purpose of this short meeting is to make the baptism day more relaxed and enjoyable.
