If you are thinking about Baptism for yourself or your child we are delighted that you have found this page and we would be pleased to explore this with you.

When babies and small children are baptised it is frequently called a Christening rather than a Baptism. There is no difference; they are different names for the same ceremony.

Baptism is a great occasion for celebration as a person is welcomed into the church family. It marks the beginning of a journey of faith. Every journey is different – for some it will begin in early childhood, for others it may happen later in life. For adults Baptism is often linked with Confirmation.  In the churches of this Benefice we welcome both children and adults in making this important public step.

You can find some excellent information about Christenings on the Church of England website at and about adult Baptism at here.

Some frequently asked questions, and a few things specific to the Churches of this Benefice.

Who can be baptised in the Shill Valley & Broadshire Benefice?

You or your child can be baptised in one of the churches of the Benefice if you live in the parish or if you regularly attend services with us. Those who live outside the Benefice and do not attend our services regularly should approach their own parish church.  Sometimes those who live elsewhere but have a long-term connection with the parish may wish for baptism in a church of this Benefice.  For example, this might be if it was the church you attended as a child and your parents still live in the parish.  If you have this kind of connection, please contact the Benefice Administrator who will help guide you on the possibilities open to you – contact details below.

When?

Baptisms in the Shill Valley and Broadshire Benefice normally take place within a Sunday service. If you have a particular date in mind please contact the Benefice Administrator as soon as possible to check that it is available. 

Godparents

As many as you wish, but three is the normal minimum: two female and one male for a girl, and vice versa for a boy. See the Church of England website for helpful information on choosing a godparent, and a guide for godparents too. You might like to ask the godparents you choose to read this information in preparation for the service.

What is expected of me or my child?

Baptism is one of the Church’s sacraments – a visible sign of God’s love for us. Jesus himself was baptised at the start of his ministry as the sign of a new beginning. He taught his followers to baptise others turning away from their old life as a sign of starting a new one. It marks the decision to follow Jesus Christ within the family of the Church. With Baptism your child becomes a member of the church and you are committing yourself to support him or her in growing in faith. Parents and godparents make promises that they will do this.

An alternative to Baptism

Some parents may feel that Baptism is not appropriate for them at this time. There is another way to celebrate the gift of a child without the commitment that Baptism involves.  In a Service of Thanksgiving and Blessing parents and families give thanks to God for the birth or adoption of a child and everyone prays for family life.  It can take place in church with family and friends gathered, or elsewhere as appropriate. A Thanksgiving Service is not a Baptism.  There are no promises to make about the Christian faith.  The child will be blessed, named, and prayed for, and supporting friends will promise to support the parents in bringing up their baby. We are very happy to help you plan such a special service for your child. 

Cost

There is no charge for Baptism, although you are encouraged to consider making a meaningful donation towards the church’s ministry.

What next?

Please contact the Benefice administrator:

Trish Chadwick
Parish Office
St. Mary’s Church
Church Green
Witney
OX28 4AW

Telephone: 07585 758574
Email:shillvalley.broadshire@aol.co.uk
Working hours: 5 hours usually over Monday and Friday mornings