For your child, being baptized marks the start of a lifelong journey of faith as part of the local and worldwide Christian family. It is not unusual for older children and adults to ask to be baptised as they discover faith a bit later in life and all are welcome to take this next step on their journey.

Find out more...

You can find out more about baptisms by visiting the Church of England's  
churchofenglandchristenings.org. Whether you are a parent, godparent or guest, this site has information that will help you understand the importance of baptism and the journey that follows. You can also visit the Church of England website to read more about baptisms.

Thanksgiving

Some parents might want to celebrate the gift of a child in a different way without the commitment that baptism involves. During the Thanksgiving service parents and families give thanks for the birth or adoption of a child and everyone prays for family life. It can take place in church with the congregation, or with just family and friends gathered, or elsewhere such as home, or even in hospital.

​A Thanksgiving Service is not a Baptism. There are no promises to make about the Christian faith. The child will be blessed and prayed for, and supporting friends will promise to support the parents in bringing up their baby.

Do please contact the Rector if you want to talk about baptism or thanksgiving.

Contact Us

​If you would like to find out more about the work of our benefice or have any questions, please contact:
​ 
Rev'd Capt. Tony Williams CA
Tel - 01594 836751
Email - revtonyw@hotmail.com
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Find Us

Each of our churches sits in a unique location within the beautiful Forest of Dean.

Christchurch - GL16 7NE
St. Mary's, English Bicknor - GL16 7PG
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