Baptisms
Baptisms are joyful times at St Mary's, where about 40 people are baptised each year.
Parish churches are required by church law to baptise (or 'christen') anyone living in the parish.
To make an enquiry please contact our baptism co-ordinator, Jan Kermeen on 01270 873706 or r.kermeen@btinternet.com.
Godparents
Infants should have at least three godparents. Boys should have two godfathers and girls two godmothers. Godparents must have been baptised themselves and it's desirable that they should be confirmed. Godparents affirm their Christian faith and commitment on behalf of their godchild.
Older children and adults have sponsors instead of godparents.
If you need any kind of help or guidance regarding godparents, please contact Jan or one of the clergy. It's possible that you may want to talk to a member of the clergy about the Service of Thanksgiving for the Birth of a Child, which is an alternative to Baptism.
The Service
Baptism services are on the first Sunday of the month at 10.00 am. In exceptional circumstances other arrangements may be made on request.
During the service, parents and godparents will be asked to make vows on behalf of the child. These vows are a serious commitment.
As part of the service, we invite a godparent, a friend or a member of the family to say or read a few words expressing how the family feels about the baptism or the child. It's nice when the family chooses a hymn. Towards the end of the service, the parents receive the baptism certificate and candle.
We're delighted when children join us in worship. We don't necessarily expect them to be still or quiet. There is a small play area where some children choose to sit. Normally, the service takes about 40 minutes. Afterwards, you are most welcome to join us for tea, coffee and soft drinks.
Registers
A digital version of the parish Baptism register from 1898 – 1986 is available at Alsager Library and at the County Records Office, Duke Street, Chester CH1 1RL (01244 972574). Alternatively you can contact the vicar, Father Robin Isherwood on 01270 or robinjisherwood@googlemail.com