Church Guide
Baptism and Christening: A Guide for Parents
Welcoming a new child with a church baptism or christening is one of the most joyful occasions in family life. This guide explains everything you need to know to arrange one.
Quick answer
Church Near Me explains christenings and baptisms in the UK — what happens at the ceremony, how to arrange one, what godparents promise, and how Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and Baptist churches differ. Most churches welcome enquiries from families who do not attend regularly.
What Is Baptism?
Baptism is the rite of initiation into the Christian church, using water as its central symbol. It has been practised since the earliest days of Christianity — described in the New Testament as an outward sign of an inward commitment, a washing away of sin and a new beginning in Christ. In denominations that baptise infants (including Catholic, Anglican, Methodist and Orthodox), baptism is also the occasion when parents and godparents publicly commit to raising the child within the Christian faith.
In Baptist and many Evangelical churches, baptism is administered only to those who make a personal profession of faith. These churches often have a ceremony of thanksgiving for a new baby that celebrates the gift of new life.
How to Arrange a Christening
- — Step 1: Contact the church. Use Church Near Me to find your local parish church and get in touch. Many churches have a specific process for christening enquiries on their website.
- — Step 2: Meet the minister. A meeting with the vicar or priest usually takes place before the ceremony. They will explain the meaning of baptism and help you choose godparents.
- — Step 3: Choose godparents. Godparents support the child's faith development as they grow up. The Church of England requires at least one confirmed godparent.
- — Step 4: The ceremony. Christenings typically take place within a regular Sunday morning service. The occasion usually takes around 20–30 minutes within the service.
Baptism Across Denominations
Church of England
Infant baptism by affusion (water poured over the forehead) in a font. Open to all families regardless of regular attendance.
Roman Catholic
Infant baptism is the norm. Usually conducted at the family's own parish. The sacrament conveys grace and removes original sin.
Methodist
Infant baptism is practised with parents making public commitments. A 'Service of Thanksgiving' is available as an alternative.
Eastern Orthodox
Baptism by full immersion, even for infants. Immediately followed by Chrismation (Confirmation) and first Holy Communion.
Baptist and Evangelical
Believer's baptism only — adults and older children who make a personal profession of faith, baptised by full immersion. A Thanksgiving Service is offered for newborns.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a baptism and a christening?
They refer to the same ceremony. 'Christening' is the more common everyday term in the UK and typically refers to infant baptism in which the child is also given their Christian name. 'Baptism' is the theological term used in Scripture and more widely across denominations.
Do we need to be churchgoers to have our baby christened?
In the Church of England, christenings are open to all families regardless of whether you regularly attend church. The vicar will usually ask to meet with you beforehand. The Catholic Church normally asks that at least one parent is Catholic and that the family has a genuine intention to raise the child in the faith.
Does it have to be at our local church?
For Church of England christenings, the ceremony usually takes place at the parish church of the area where the child lives, though many vicars will accommodate families with a family connection to their church. Catholic christenings usually take place at the family's own parish.
Do we need godparents?
In the Church of England and Catholic Church, godparents are a traditional and important part of the ceremony. The Church of England requires at least three godparents. At least one must be confirmed. Methodist and Baptist churches often use 'supporting friends' rather than the formal godparent role.
How long after birth should a baby be christened?
There is no strict rule. Many families choose the first few months, but christenings take place at any age. It is also possible for older children and adults to be baptised.
What happens at a christening service?
A christening normally takes place during a regular Sunday service. The ceremony involves the parents and godparents renouncing evil and affirming Christian faith on behalf of the child. The vicar or priest pours water over the child's head three times in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit. A candle is lit as a symbol of passing from darkness to light.