Celebrating Life Events

Baptism (also known as christening) is the ceremony when a baby, child or adult is welcomed as a new member into Christ's church and promises are made to follow in the way of Christ. A christening for a baby or child is a lovely family occasion, where people close to them pledge to look after them, guide them in life and encourage them in the Christian faith. If you weren't christened when you were younger you are very welcome to be baptised as an adult. If you are a parent considering a ceremony for your child, then you are also welcome to be baptised in the same service or at a different time to suit. The ceremony can take place as part of an ordinary Sunday service or as a stand-alone ceremony for your family and those closest to you.

As well as christenings and baptisms we also offer a service of thanksgiving which can be more suitable for some families looking for a special way to mark the birth of a child. You might choose this service if you would like your child to make their personal commitment to God when they are older, or if you simply want to celebrate the arrival of your child with special words said by a vicar in church.

Anyone can be baptised at the parish church where they live - all you need do is ask. There is no fee for a baptism or thanksgiving service, although many families choose to make a donation. The Church of England has a website with more information about baptism.

Being married in church can be a personal, family and spiritual highlight. Churches have a special atmosphere and are unique places to get married in - the prayers, promises and the whole service of celebration become part of your marriage, on the day itself and beyond. The ceremony includes prayers that seek God’s help, guidance, and blessing. A wedding service can blend ancient tradition and modern experience to reflect your story. The Vicar has a very particular role to play in your wedding and will take the time to meet with you to help you make your wedding service personal, memorable and meaningful.

Lots of people marry in their own local church, but you might like to marry in a different church because it has special significance for you through family or other connections.

The Church of England has lots of information on its website Your Church Wedding, including ideas about choosing hymns, suggested readings, and answers any questions you may have about getting married in church. And after your wedding, the church is not just a wedding venue but somewhere you can come to for support.

A Church of England funeral is available to everyone, giving support before, during and after the service, for as long as it’s needed. You can choose a funeral at a church or at a crematorium. Your loved one does not need to be baptised, a church community member or a Christian. We offer a funeral to anyone.

The service may include the celebration of your loved one's life, but it is more than that. At the heart of the service, we recognise that young or old, popular or unpopular, your loved one was made by God and that he loves them. At the close of the service, in the prayer of commendation, we entrust that special person into God's safekeeping.

The traditional words of the Church of England funeral service have been used for generations, are well recognised and can bring comfort to family members. The vicar can help you decide on ways to personalise the service through readings from the Bible, other readings, poems and music choices. 

The fees for a Church of England service are fixed (usually you won't need to worry about it separately as it will be included in the funeral director's total bill.) There may be extra charges for the organist, for a verger or heating.

There is no fee for the funeral of a child or young person under the age of 16 or for the burial of a stillborn infant.

You can find more information about organising a funeral, choices of service and what you can include on the Church of England funerals website.