Baptism and Thanksgiving for the birth of a child

At St Paul’s we baptise children of believing parents, and we give thanks for the birth of children who we may later baptise as believers. We offer this mixed economy for a number of different reasons.

Firstly, we recognise that there are a diversity of views and opinions about baptism in the church. The Church of England offers a variety of services that ensures, whatever our tradition or conviction, there is a service to suit everyone.

Secondly, each expression has a different emphasis, both of which are important.

The baptism of children emphasises the gracious initiative of God as he welcomes us into the church. Both this divine initiative and our initiation into the church are key elements of what baptism means.

The Thanksgiving of Children followed by their baptism as believers, on the other hand, emphasises the importance of our response of faith to this gracious call of God.

At St Paul’s we practice a mixed economy that we believe gives a good balance between God’s grace and call, and our response and faith. If you would like to know more about baptism or thanksgiving please email admin@stpaulsshadwell.org