Baptism What is ‘baptism?’ Can I describe what happens in a baptism service? Can I talk about where my baptism took place and who was there? Can I see photos of what I wore?

What are all the things water can be used for. Then make a list of words to describe water, like ‘refreshing.’

Baptism is the word used by most Christians for the service in which people join the church. Sometimes the word ‘christening’ is used instead.

Water is used in the ceremony.

A baby cannot speak itself A baby cannot speak itself. So its parents decide to bring the baby for baptism . They promise to bring the child up as a Christian. This is why some people call it a christening.

The baby is brought to church by their parents, along with friends or relatives who are called godparents. The godparents as well as the parents make promises that the child will be brought up to follow the teachings of Jesus.

Baptism is often part of an ordinary church service.

The vicar, parents & godparents gather around the font. This is a special container for water which has been blessed.

You may see a font just inside the door of a church. This is to show that baptism is the ‘doorway’ into Christianity and you are entering the church.

The priest uses the water to make the sign of the cross on the baby’s forehead and says “I baptise you in the name of the Father, and of The Son and of the Holy Spirit.” This is known as the Trinity.

that the child will be kept safe from evil. The priest prays that the child will be kept safe from evil.

A lighted candle is given. Priests say “This is to show you have passed from darkness to light. Shine as a light in the world”

The baby can wear any type of clothing for the service The baby can wear any type of clothing for the service. Sometimes a family may have a special christening gown which has been worn over the years by different family members at their own baptism. White is often worn as a symbol of purity.

http://www.educhurch.org.uk/pupils/combs/font.html (short video clip showing baptism)