Baptisms (Christenings)
Everyone who lives in Sprowston is allowed to have their children baptised in either church. There is no charge; we ask you to give a donation to the church as you can afford, but ask you to think about £30.
Baptisms can take place during any service at either church or they can be arranged for a separate time (usually 3pm on Sunday). We may ask you to share the occasion with one other family.
You promise in the service that you will do what you can to bring your child up as a Christian, and we promise that we will make her/him welcome as part of the church.
If you would like any further information or have any questions please contact Revd Dean Akrill on 01603 482360 or email dean@sprowston.org.uk
What Happens in the Baptism Service
The minister says to the whole congregation:
Faith is the gift of God to his people. In baptism the Lord is adding to our number those whom he is calling. People of God, will you welcome these children and uphold them in their new life in Christ?
All: With the help of God, we will.
The minister says to the parents and godparents:
Parents and godparents, the Church receives these children with joy.
In baptism they begin their journey in faith. You speak for them today.
Will you care for them, will you pray for them, will you walk with them in the way of Christ, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ's Church?
Parents and godparents reply: With the help of God, we will.
The Decision
The Easter candle is lit.
In baptism, God calls us out of darkness into his marvellous light. To follow Christ means dying to sin and rising to new life with him. Therefore I ask:
Parents and godparents reply on behalf of the child
Do you reject the devil and all rebellion against God?
I reject them.
Do you renounce the deceit and corruption of evil?
I renounce them.
Do you repent of the sins that separate us from God and neighbour?
I repent of them.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
I turn to Christ.
Do you submit to Christ as Lord?
I submit to Christ.
Do you come to Christ, the way, the truth and the life?
I come to Christ.
Signing with the Cross
The minister makes the sign of the cross on the forehead of each candidate, saying:
Christ claims you for his own. Receive the sign of his cross.
When all the candidates have been signed, the minister says:
Do not be ashamed to confess the faith of Christ crucified.
All: Fight valiantly as a disciple of Christ against sin, the world and the devil, and remain faithful to Christ to the end of your life.
May almighty God deliver you from the powers of darkness, restore in you the image of his glory, and lead you in the light and obedience of Christ.
Amen.