The West Dartmoor Benefice covers the parishes of Meavy, Princetown, Sheepstor, Yelverton and Walkhampton.
We’re delighted you’re thinking of baptism. Whether you are young or old you are precious to God. At baptism you promise either to raise your child to know God loves them, and to help them to follow Jesus as a member of the Church or if you are old enough you make those promises yourself.
What is baptism?
Baptism marks the start of a journey of faith, which involves turning towards Christ and becoming a member of the local and worldwide Christian family. Baptism is a 'sacrament' a visible sign of God's love. In baptism, we are thanking God for his gift of life and publicly acknowledging his love. We are acknowledging that we all need to accept God’s offer of a new start.
If you want to explore the Baptism Service then click here to read the text of the Common Worship service.
When does a Baptism happen?
Baptisms take place during the main Sunday service (usually in the morning). This is because it is important that everyone knows you are joining the family of the Church and are welcomed. In turn the Church will promise to support and pray for you and your child.
How do I arrange a Baptism?
In the first instance please contact the Rector (01822 854653 or email nick.shutt@dsl.pipex.com). A member of the Ministerial Team will see you and discuss with you what Baptism means and the importance of the promises that you will make either for yourself or on behalf of a child. The role of Godparents will also be discussed. Click here to read more about becoming a Godparent from the Church of England website and to find out more about baptism
Frequently asked questions: -
Q. What's the difference between a baptism and a christening?
A. None, they are just different words for the same thing.
Q. Can we have a private service of baptism?
A. Baptisms take place in the church's main service, because they are a public declaration that your child has become part of the church family. It is important that the church congregation is there to support you and welcome your child. It is not the policy of this Benefice to offer private baptism services.
Q. What is the right age for baptism?
A. Baptism can happen at any age. What matters is that those concerned are committed to bring up a child as a Christian. Teenagers and adults may also be baptized. You can only be baptised once, but there are ways of renewing your Christian commitment publicly as an adult. The Rector will be able to advise you.
Q. I'm not a regular churchgoer. Can I still have my child baptised?
A. Yes. The Church believes that God's love is available to all, regardless of their background. You may also wish to find out more about the Christian faith and what joining the Church involves before you make a decision about baptism. Again, the Rector can give you guidance.
Q. What does it cost?
A. A Baptism service is free, though there may be a small charge for a certificate.
Click here for a pdf leaflet on being a Godparent
Please do not hesitate to contact us so we can explain in detail what it means to be baptized.
Further information can be obtained from the Rector, the Revd Nick Shutt
(01822 854653 or email nick.shutt@dsl.pipex.com).
