We also baptise children. Kids are truly gifts from God, and we welcome families who want to express thanks to God for the gift of a new family member.

However baptism is also much more than a gesture of gratitude. Jesus Christ calls us to follow him. Those who heed that call adopt his values, accept his teachings, and worship him alongside his other followers.

There was a time when baptism was little more than a customary rite of passage in our culture. That time is past, and baptism now has returned to its true significance; the ceremony that marks the beginning of a life devoted to following Christ, the event at which the family of the church welcomes a new member.

For these reasons the policy of the Anglican Church is that:

• Baptisms should take place in the regular worship services of the church (St Mark's Swanson, Sun 9am; St Michael's Henderson Sun 8am & 10am) We do not do private baptisms.
• Parents and godparents will thoroughly think through the meaning of baptism and the vows that they will make.

We ask you to attend a preparatory course held at the church. This set of 3 meetings is held on 3 consecutive Sunday afternoons at 3.30pm, and is offered several times in the year. Dates are available on request. We also ask you to attend at least 3 regular Sunday worship services before scheduling a baptism.

We do not apologise for these requirements. They match the significance which baptism possesses. has. We also recognise, however, that many parents with little connection to the church nevertheless feel that they would like to give thanks to God for their little bundle of joy. A thanksgiving ceremony, which does not entail major vows, & is not a baptism, is also available. 

Please contact  office@stmichaels.net.nz   to discuss any of these issues, and to find the date of the next preparation series

 

 

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