Baptism
at St Editha's |
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In this country, many babies come to their parish church to be baptised (or 'christened'), although baptism is not just for children but is for adults too! Jesus was baptised in the river Jordan and told his followers to baptise others. This is why baptism has always been a sign, and a way, of becoming a Christian (one who follows Jesus Christ). Initially, baptism took place on the Saturday between Good Friday and Easter Day, often in a river. Those coming forward having received instruction in the basics of Christian belief. Reminded of the Good Friday story of Crucifixion, they repented of their sins and were assured that God forgave them. In baptism, they were received into the Church with all the joy of the Resurrection. The new Christians were dipped under the water, marking their death to an old way of life, and lifted up again as a sign of new birth |
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The custom of baptising babies grew as Christian parents wanted their children to belong to Christ and be part of the Church - Particularly important when Christians were being persecuted and dying for their faith. Today, the Church baptises both children and adults. There is no particular age at which baptism is right. What matters is that those concerned believe that it is right to ask for baptism. There are many reasons why people seek baptism for themselves or for their children. One Mum called on a priest and asked how soon he "could do their five children". Asked what the hurry was, she replied, "My mother-in-law has baked a nice cake!" Others believe that, unless their baby is baptised, the child will go to hell. The Church believes that God loves each and every one of us,whether baptised or not. In St Editha's, baptisms
take place at the font, which is just inside the main doors into
the church, usually on a Sunday afternoon. The font is the first
thing you will see on entering the church. This symbolises baptism
as the way into membership of the Church.
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