The Baptism of Children at the Church of the Epiphany, Sudbury
An Invitation
The baptism of one who is not old enough to speak for him or herself is indeed a happy occasion.
When you bring your child for baptism, you are making a commitment to be actively involved in teaching him or her to come to a personal and living faith in Jesus. You are also making a commitment to participate in the life of the church. However, do not feel that you have to do all this alone! You are invited to join us at the Epiphany as we journey together, seeking as a community to love and serve the Lord Jesus Christ
The Christian journey is not one we take alone. As a church we welcome your company as we journey together, support one another and reach out to the world with the Good News of Jesus Christ. If you are not already a member of the Epiphany, you will discover that we come in a variety of age groups, backgrounds, interests and lifestyles. Don't worry. You'll have no trouble fitting in!
If you have any questions after reading this page, do not hesitate to contact the Rector.
What is Baptism?
Baptism is a sacrament, which means it is an outward and visible sign of God's free gift of life through Jesus Christ.
The Bible talks about baptism in terms of a "washing away of sin" and a "dying to our old life, and rising again to a new life in Christ." The Bible always talks about baptism in the context of a professed faith in Christ. Baptism along with faith are the means by which a person is united with Christ and made a member of the Christian community, the church.
Should I have my child baptised?
Baptism is entirely appropriate for the children of Christian believers. All parents who have responded to Christ's call in their own lives, and who are active participants in the church should bring their children for baptism.
What if I don't attend church?
If you don't attend church, then we warmly invite you to join us! We would encourage you to join Epiphany by simply contacting one of the clergy after a Sunday morning service.
Remember that in baptism you are publicly committing yourself and your child to be followers of Jesus and active members of his church. We know you want to make that commitment with integrity, and we will do all we can to support you in that decision.
Why not join us this Sunday?
Choosing your sponsors
When you are considering whom you would like as sponsors (godparents), please remember that these are people who will be responsible for the Christian nurture of your child. The sponsor is not simply an honorary guardian.
The people you choose should be active in their Christian walk. They must be baptised and should be regular participants in their local church (not necessarily Anglican).
Setting a date
We normally schedule services of Holy Baptism on the fourth Sunday of the month, although we do try to be flexible at the Epiphany. Please do not set your own date before speaking with the Rector.
Baptism Preparation
We ask all people who come for baptism to meet with the Rector for pre-baptism preparation. This session is normally held with all people who are bringing their children for baptism, as well as with the chosen sponsors (Godparents). We will arrange this meeting at a time convenient for everyone concerned
For Further Information
If you are interested in having your child baptised, or if you would like more information, please feel free to call the Epiphany at 675-2279