Life Events
Life events are particular occasions in our lives, which have a special significance.
Baptisms & Confirmations
During the christening your child will be baptized. It's the first step of an amazing journey with God, parents, godparents, friends, family and the church. In the waters of baptism we begin a new life. We are born into a new relationship with the God who loves us and into the family which will be with us to eternity. Baptism is a sign of belonging: both to God and to his visible family, the Church and it is the beginning of a lifetime’s journey with God – of faith and of self-discovery.
Confirmation is a special church service in which a person confirms the promises that were made when they were baptized. The local bishop will lay their hands on your head and ask God’s Holy Spirit to give you the strength and commitment to live God’s way for the rest of your life. There are no godparents at confirmation, but you may like a sponsor (usually this is someone who has already been confirmed) to support you in your journey of faith. There is no set age to be confirmed but as general rule children need to be at least ten years old. If you feel ready for confirmation or are unsure and would like advice speak to the priest in charge.
Weddings
A wedding is one of life’s great moments, a time of solemn commitment as well as good wishes, feasting and joy.
Marriage is intended by God to be a creative relationship, as his blessing enables husband and wife to love and support each other in good times and in bad, and to share in the care and upbringing of children. For Christians, marriage is also an invitation to share life together in the spirit of Jesus Christ.
On their wedding day the bride and bridegroom face each other, make their promises and receive God’s blessing.
Funerals
If someone you know and love has died, a funeral led by a Church of England minister can be held in church, in a churchyard, by a graveside, or at a crematorium. The minister will be there to support you through this difficult time. As well as helping you to arrange a funeral within the parish Reverend Mark Neave can also offer pastoral support 01548 721 306 or mark.neave@live.co.uk.