Supporting You
Christianity is a lifelong journey and commitment, and some of its stages are marked by special services and celebrations. If you wish to arrange any of these, or if you have a different need, please contact the clergy.
Baptisms (Christenings)
We are happy to baptise (christen) children who live in the parish. We meet with the parents and godparents before the baptism to discuss the Christian upbringing of children, and the meaning of the baptism service. Children are baptised on the basis of their parents' commitment to live as Christians, and on the understanding that parents and children will come regularly to Church. Older baptism candidates are also welcome, and we make special arrangements for their preparation.
Communion Preparation
The parish welcomes the admission of children to communion. Children who are in second year Junior School or above are invited to join Communion preparation classes early in the year, and are admitted to receive communion at Pentecost (Whitsun). A very high degree of commitment to the preparation process is required.
Confirmation Preparation
We are always pleased to prepare people for confirmation, and believe that it is never too late to be confirmed. If you feel that the time has come to make your permanent commitment to live the Christian life, then please contact the clergy. We discourage confirmation before the age of 16.
Weddings
We are happy to marry any couple where either or both are living in the parish. Unfortunately it is against the law for us to marry any couple unless one of them is living in the parish, or on the electoral roll of the parish. Please check with the Vicar about the residence qualification. After suitable preparation, we are in some cases willing to re-marry divorced people.
House Blessings
Moving into a new house is a big event in family life. If you would like a house blessing as part of your housewarming party, please contact the clergy.
Home Communion
The Ministry Team and some members of the congregation licensed by the Bishop visit the nursing homes in the parish regularly. We also visit those who wish to receive communion at home and are not able to come to Church. If you are in this position, or if you know of a member of the Church who is, please contact the clergy.
Funerals
Members of the Ministry Team are always willing to conduct funerals for members of the congregation, or people who were living in the parish. The arrangements are usually made through the undertaker. We are very happy to discuss funeral arrangements well in advance of the event. We are always available to pray with the sick and the dying, and ask families to remember the peace that this can bring after a lifetime of Christian Living.