A Baptism (sometimes known as christening) is an important event in the life of a family, and in the life of the Church family too.
Baptism is one of the two sacraments recognised by the Church of Scotland, the other being the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper. In the case of infant baptism the Church expects at least one parent or other close family member either to be a member of the Church or willing to become a member. In the baptismal service those appropriate adults profess their own faith and promise to give the child a Christian upbringing.
Baptism is not only for infants but can be something for adults too – who have not been baptised before. In the case of adult baptism, the person himself or herself makes the appropriate promises.
Baptism is normally administered at Sunday worship in front of the congregation. This emphasises the nature of the sacrament as becoming part of the body of Christ and the life of the Church. There is a little more flexibility in the case of genuine emergencies, normally in a hospital situation.
Amongst the promises made by parents at the baptism of their child, and by adults at their baptism, is to become part of the Church’s life – and for children this would mean coming to the creche, and later Sunday School, as they grow up – accompanied by their parents.
The Thanksgiving and Blessing of a Child
Since 2003, the Church has provided orders for the thanksgiving for, and blessing of, a child. The blessing ceremony takes place at morning worship following the same pattern as that for Baptism, except the wording and promises are different, and no water is used. Nothing is required of the parents in either commitment or belief. Our guide on the blessing of a child includes more information and a suggested order of service for the thanksgiving and blessing of a child.
Please contact the Minister for more information.