Baptism is one of the Church’s sacraments – a visible sign of God’s love for us.  Jesus himself was baptised at the start of his ministry as the sign of a new beginning.  He taught his followers to baptise others – turning away from their old life as a sign of starting a new one.  It marks the decision to follow Jesus Christ within the family of the Church. With Baptism your child becomes a member of the church and you are committing yourself to support him or her in growing in faith. Parents and godparents make promises that they will do this.

You, or your child, can be baptised in one of our churches if you live in Rushen Parish or if you regularly attend services with us.  If you live outside the Parish and do not attend our services regularly you should approach your own parish church.  However, if you have a long-term connection with this Parish (e.g. you lived here as a child, or got married here, or your parents still live in the parish) then please do contact the Vicar who will explore the various options with you.

The Baptism Registers allow up to four Godparents, but traditionally there are three Godparents; two female and one male for a girl, and vice versa for a boy.  It is important that you choose people who will take an interest in your child’s spiritual life and who will pray for you and your child. They should be baptised themselves and mature enough to act as a Godparent.   For helpful information on choosing a godparent please visit the Church of England website. You might like to ask the godparents you choose to read this information in preparation for the service.

Baptism is a symbol of God’s love for us which is freely given, and so there is no charge for Baptism services.  You are encouraged to consider making a donation towards the life and worship of the church.