BAPTISM

GENERAL

Baptism is the Rite of initiation into the Church; it is (as Article 27 states) ‘the sign of regeneration or new birth’. It is the precondition for admission to Holy Communion, confirmation, and ordination. Its foundational significance therefore demands that the greatest care be taken in the proper administration of the sacrament.

 ‘Its essential elements are the immersion of the candidate in water, or the affusion or pouring of water over them in the name of the Trinity’ (Leeder, Ecclesiastical Law Handbook).

THE TIME AND PLACE OF BAPTISM

Since Baptism is the rite of initiation, it is right that it normally be administered in the context of public worship on a Sunday, so that the regular congregation may witness the reception into their fellowship of the newly baptised person, and themselves be reminded of their own baptismal promises. Baptism at other times should be the exception.

THE DUTY TO BAPTISE

The Parish Priest has a duty in law to baptise all in his parish who request the sacrament. The priest may not delay such baptism except for a period of proper instruction of parents and godparents or sponsors.

No fee may be demanded for Baptism, either by the priest, churchwardens, or PCC.

GODPARENTS

There are customarily three godparents for each person baptised; but more than three is acceptable, and a minister has power to allow for only two when appropriate.

Godparents should be themselves both baptised and confirmed, although the minister may dispense with the necessity of confirmation for godparents if it is thought appropriate to do so. But godparents should be reminded that it is their responsibility to see that the candidate for baptism is nurtured in the Christian faith, and to carry out this responsibility both by word and example.