Baptisms and Weddings

Baptisms and Weddings

Baptismal candle and oil stocks

Baptisms/Christenings


Holy Baptism, also known as christening, is a sacrament of the Church throughout the world. In Baptism we are born again by water and the Holy Spirit and are claimed by Christ as children of God (which is why it is known as christening). This is an important step, in fact it is the beginning of a journey with Jesus Christ. In Baptism we become Jesus’ followers and so can call ourselves Christians because our lives are orientated towards trusting and following Him. We remember that Jesus was sent into the world, not to condemn the world but that through Him all might be saved. 

In the Church of England Baptisms can happen at any age. For adults an understanding of and commitment to following Jesus along with at time of prayerful preparation is required. Adults are most often Baptised and Confirmed at the same time. For those who are too young to speak for themselves, godparents are needed to speak for them. Godparents are people who are themselves Baptised Christians and who will commit to playing a role in the child’s life, supporting and guiding them in their Christian journey and very importantly praying for them. The Church of England requires that a boy have two male godparents and one female and a girl have two female godparents and one male.

 

If you would like to know more about Holy Baptism, the Christian faith and what is involved in having your child christened, please contact the Parish Office (01903 750286) or complete our baptism enquiry form.


Find out more about Baptism

Weddings


‘The Church of England affirms, according to our Lord’s teaching, that marriage is in its nature a union permanent and life long, for better for worse, till death them do part, of one man and one woman…’

[The Canons of the Church of England]

Flowers attached to end of box pew

Weddings are conducted at St James’s for Christian couples according to the requirements of English Law.

St James’s is thrilled to welcome anyone who chooses to come to our worship and events. To be married here it is necessary for a couple to qualify by Law. The legal qualifications were extended in October 2008 to include couples at least one of whom 

  • lives in the parish now or has at any time for a period of six months;
  • or worships regularly at St James’s now or has at any time for six months;
  • or was baptised at St James’s or was presented for Confirmation by St James’s;
  • or has a parent who has lived or worshipped here for six months;
  • or has a parent or grandparent who was married at St James’s.

 

If you wish to enquire about being married at St James’s please contact the Parish Office on 01903 750286 or complete the form below.

Find out more about Weddings
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