St Aldhelms exists for you. At whatever stage you are in life we are there for you. As Christians or those exploring the Christian faith, those stages are marked with different ceremonies. At the same time as we mark them these ceremonies mark us.
Baptism
We’re delighted you’re thinking of baptism for yourself or your child. At baptism you promise to raise your child to know God loves them, and to help them to follow Jesus as a member of the Church, For people able to make their own decision, your baptism is the start of a wonderful journey to and with God, made in front of friends and family.
At St Aldhelm’s we welcome you to have your child baptised, either as part of a normal Sunday service, or following our morning service on a Sunday, normally around 11.30am.
For more information regarding your baptism please look at the Church of England website for details regarding who is eligible to be Godparents and the service in general.
Confirmation
Being a Christian is about being on a journey not on your own but with others. You may choose to be confirmed, a ceremony when the Diocese Bishop lays their hands on you, when you are ready to show those around you that you are on that journey. At this service you ‘CONFIRM’ the promises that were made for you at your Baptism by your parents and Godparents.
We regularly offer confirmation supported by confirmation classes that help explain not only the ceremony but its significance in their own faith journey.
Marriage
Congratulations that you have reached the decision to get married. We are here to help you in your planning and preparation for your Big Day.
With Marriage being a legal ceremony and governed by English and Church Canon Law, there are certain rules and policies set by Government that we have to adhere to. Please look at the website below for more information. This website says: – There are certain things that must happen in a church wedding to ensure the marriage complies with both UK civil and church law.
Funeral
A funeral is used to mark the end of a person’s life here on earth. Family and friends come together to express grief, give thanks for the life lived and commend the person into God’s keeping. These can be a small, quiet ceremony or a large occasion in a packed church.
Everyone is entitled to either a Funeral service in church followed by either a burial service or cremation service. Members of our Church community can have their ashes buried at St Aldhelms Garden of Remembrance if they would like to.
If you would like to discuss how St Aldhelm’s can help with any of these significant Life Events please contact either the ministry team or the parish office to arrange a personal meeting with Father Pip, who would be only too happy to help you make the right decision.