Baptisms

We are always delighted to baptise a child whose family lives in the Benefice, and we have a careful process of preparation for baptism, which is intended to help you, as a family, get to know us; and to help us, as a church family, get to know you and your child(ren).

The Church of England Baptism Service gives the church family a responsibility to assist you in encouraging your child to ‘grow in faith’ and to draw them ‘by your example’ into the community of faith. We take this responsibility seriously and believe it is important for us to get to know you and your child, before the baptism.

With this in mind, we offer every family enquiring about baptism a service of Thanksgiving and Blessing, as soon as convenient after the birth, or adoption, of the child> Full baptism can follow about four months later, which allows you time to come along to some of our services so you can get to know us and we can get to know you.  Prior to the baptism, a church representative will visit you at home to discuss the service and show you a video which explains baptism in more detail. You will, of course, have the chance to ask any questions you may have about the Christian faith, or the meaning of baptism.

Our Thanksgivings and Baptisms are normally conducted by prior arrangement with  during one of our Sunday services, which are held at: 10am at St Michael’s Church and 5pm (tea at 4.15pm) at St Mary's Church.

We will, of course, always baptise a child immediately in the case of a serious medical risk or emergency.

A leaflet entitled ‘Your child’s baptism in the Church of England’ is available, as well as a form for you to complete with your personal details. If you would like to arrange an initial visit, please contact Church Administrator Sue Hislop on 01795 439230 or email her at Suesaintsinsittingbourne@hotmail.com.

Please note: We have a different procedure for adults who wish to be baptised; please contact us or use the feedback form if you would like further details.