Baptism/Child Dedication/Naming
Although not conducted during worship, these special services of welcome to children are considered part of the Sunday service here at Chatham. Baptisms are held after the first service of the month at 12 noon and before the second service of the month at 3pm.
If you would prefer to hold this celebration at another time when the church is not open for worship, or in your own home, or elsewhere, this is also possible.
This is an opportunity for parents to celebrate the birth of their child and to formally
dedicate themselves to their child's nurture, and their child to our heritage of good and to ask God's blessing on their child and on themselves as parents.
The Christian christening ceremony does ask you to make promises that you may not wish to keep, such as to be a faithful member of this congregation and to learn the way of life which Jesus taught and to follow him as best you can.
Many people prefer not to do this, but do want to ask God's blessing on their child, recognising that their child will want to decide for themselves, when they are mature enough to do so, which religious path they would like to follow.
With the lay leader you will be helped to create a service that reflects your intentions and your commitment towards your child. Whichever emphasis you wish to give to the service, it is above all an opportunity to welcome your child to the family of humankind and celebrate his or her life and the family which you are creating.