If you are thinking about having your child christened, we would be very happy to hear from you.  It is good to acknowledge that all children are a gift to us from God and to think about the Christian journey of faith.  It is worth remembering that baptism is a serious commitment.  We are here to help you think about whether baptism is the right thing for you and your child.

In the first instance please attend a Baptism meeting with Fr Stephen. These are held at 7pm in St John the Evangelist Church, Farnworth, on the following dates

January 9th (Tuesday)

January 31st (Wednesday)

March 20th (Wednesday)

April 24th (Wednesday)

May 20th (Wednesday)

June 19th (Wednesday)

To have a child christened / baptised at St. John’s you must live within the parish boundaries or have a valid connection with the church.  If so you will need to attend a Baptism Preparation Evening which are held in church.  Parents, Grandparents and potential Godparents are all invited to attend one of these sessions but it would be better not to bring young children with you if you can avoid it. This is an informal get-together which takes the form of watching a DVD, followed by a short talk and a friendly question and answer session.  Please ring or email Stephen, the Vicar, to find out when the next session is.

At the end of the Baptism Preparation Evening,  if you are happy with all we have told you about baptism, we will be happy to discuss with you a date for your child’s baptism and look forward to welcoming you and your family at church on that date.  We will then fill in a form with you.  If you are still unsure about baptism, the Vicar or another member of the church will be happy to talk with you further about your questions and concerns.

Should you feel that you are not ready or cannot make the promises asked of you at the Baptism Service, then it is possible for you to have an alternative “Service of Thanksgiving” for your child in church, at which all members of your family and friends could attend.  Please speak to someone at the session or the Vicar who will be happy to discuss this type of service with you.

Fr Stephen Nolan

Team Rector Farnworth, Kearsley & Stoneclough Team

55 Church Street,

Farnworth, Bolton BL4 8AQ

01204 451836  

For more information please visit churchofenglandchristenings.org