Baptisms
Baptisms (also known as christenings) are about belonging to and being welcomed into the family of the Church, with the support of family, friends and the community. Babies, children and adults can be baptised where water is poured or wiped on their head. When a baby or young child is baptised, the parents and godparents will make promises on their behalf. This commitment is supporting them through their faith and helping them to make the right choices. Older children and adults make their own promises.
Baptisms are held on Sundays at 1.30pm and last about half an hour. Those who have been baptised are welcomed into the church family and will be given a baptism certificate and candle during the baptism service.
A baptism marks the start of a journey of growth to a fulfilled Christian life. Children are an important part of the church family and we warmly welcome them to Sunday worship.
Thanksgiving Services
If you are not a current member of the church family at St Mary’s, you can request a Thanksgiving Service for your child/children.
A shorter service than a Baptism, a Thanksgiving is a time you can ask for God’s blessing in the presence of your family and friends. Thanksgiving services are held on Sundays at 1.30pm.
We do not charge for baptism or thanksgiving but there will be an opportunity to support the work of St. Marys Portchester at the conclusion of the baptism or thanksgiving service either in cash or electronically or by swiping the following QR code.
If you have any questions or would like more information, please contact the office on 02392 321380.
Please find our baptism and thanksgiving application form below. On completion the Baptism Co-ordinator will contact you to arrange the date of the ceremony.