Baptism, Weddings and Funerals
At those key times in life
Baptism and Thanksgiving
Baptism (sometimes known as Christening) marks a new beginning of Christian life whether we are adults, young people or children. St Helen’s and St. Mary’s welcome people of all ages and are committed to providing a safe and welcoming place for people to explore and grow in the Christian faith and to remain faithful to their baptismal promises.
Many people feel they would like to give thanks for their child in Church in a very special way, to seek God’s blessings for their child and mark the occasion with a family celebration. For some, however, baptism can feel like it is too big a commitment which they are not yet ready to make. In this case, parents may like to consider a special service of Thanksgiving and Blessing. This is a shorter “private” service (20-30 minutes) during which the child is blessed by name and signed with the sign of the cross. It can be held at a time to suit the child and parents.
Wedding
Congratulations!
If you decide that you would like to have a church wedding, we would love to talk to you about how we can help. Please ring the church adminstrator to set up a meeting with the vicar.
If you would like to get married at St. Helen's or at St. Mary's, you will need to live in the parish or to have a qualifying conections to the parish or the church.
We can help you to plan every part of your service. For some ideas about readings and music for your ceremony, visit the Church of England's 'ceremony planner.'
Funeral
Funerals
At a Church funeral you will hear a bible reading, some prayers and possibly sing some hymns. You are also very welcome to include other poems and readings and some music that is special to you- it doesn't have to be religious or 'churchy'.
Funerals can happen in the church before moving on to the crematorium or graveyard. If you would like ashes to be buried in the churchyard please speak to your funeral director and they will help you to arrange the funeral with us.
Burials
Both St. Helen's and St. Mary's have open graveyards if you wish to have a burial. If this is the case then a funeral usually happens in the church and then we move immediately outside to a commital in the graveyard.
If you would like a Church service, please speak to your funeral director and let them know your preferences. The funeral director will contact us and we will then arrange to visit you and discuss your wishes.
Cremations and burial of ashes
If you prefer to have a cremation then there are various options open to you. Some people choose to have a funeral service in church and then go to the crematorium for a very short commital service. Others choose to have the whole service at the crematorium. Let us know what you prefer After cremation we are happy to arrange for a burial of ashes in either church yard. Again, please speak to your funeral director and they will contact us.