Baptism is one of the two sacraments recognised by the Church of Scotland, with the other being the Sacrament of Holy Communion. In the case of infant baptism, the Church expects at least one parent or other close family member either to be a member of the Church or willing to become a member.

In the baptismal service, those appropriate adults profess their own faith and promise to give the child a Christian upbringing.

In the case of adult baptism, the person themselves makes the appropriate promises.

Baptism is normally administered at Sunday worship in front of the congregation. This emphasises the nature of the sacrament as incorporation into the body of Christ and the life of the Church. There is a little more flexibility in the case of genuine emergencies, normally in a hospital situation.

It is very important that parents or guardians realise the importance of the vows they are making on behalf of their child and the commitment of the congregation in providing a caring environment for children and their parents to be encouraged in faith. If you are unable to fulfil these promises at the moment, we offer a child’s blessing as an alternative.

The Thanksgiving and Blessing of a Child

Since 2003, the Church has provided orders for the thanksgiving for, and blessing of, a child. The blessing ceremony takes place at morning worship following the same pattern as that for Baptism, except the wording and promises are different, and no water is used. Nothing is required of the parents in either commitment or belief.

Questions and Answers

What happens at Baptism at St Andrews Lhanbryd and Urquhart?

Water is sprinkled on the head of the person ( adult or child) prayers are made, promises are made by parent and a blessing is given.

Can you be baptised more than once?

No.

Is it only babies that are baptised ?

No children and adults can also be baptised. Children over the age of 12 and adults – we would expect the candidate to take responsibility for there own promises and be aware of the significance of the Sacrament they are participating in. The minister will happily talk with them to answer any questions.

Sprinkling or dipping ?

The Church of Scotland recognise both, In the case of children it would always be sprinkling with water at the font – if an adult desires an immersion baptism and can give a good reason why every effort will be made to accommodate that wish , but it must be noted that baptism happens in response to the preaching of the Word and in the context of Public Worship.

Does being Baptised as a child make you a Christian ?

I would have to say no. The Liturgy used at St Andrews Lhanbryd and Urquhart recognises that the child belongs to God in Christ, that they are Loved by God and are part of the Church family. Also, the parents promise to bring up the child in the Christian faith until such time as they are able to choose the path of Faith for themselves.

Do I need God Parents ?

It is delightful when a child is accompanied by people that have an interest in their welfare and it is a reassurance for the parents to have support from friends and family. However, they have no formal part in the service and no specific promises or liturgical responsibilities.

Can the Baptism be photographed or filmed ?

in normal circumstances no.

Is an infant blessing a second rate baptism

No! like baptism it is a joyful event and allows the parents to mark the occasion of their child’s birth and naming – in front of family, friends and the Church Community. It also allows the parents to demonstrate integrity if they have no intention of bringing the child up within the Christian Faith.

If I choose a service of Infant Blessing can the child get baptised in the future should we/they choose ?

Yes

Are other children welcome at the Service?

Yes Children are important to Jesus and to His Church , If you are bringing very young children, you can register them in the crèche beforehand or they can remain with you in the service. We are delighted when visiting children (aged 3+) choose to join in with the Young Church or Tic Tacs – anyone wanting to do this should simply head through to the halls at the beginning of the service. Young Church and Tic Tacs will come through from the hall from the halls to witness the baptism.

Is there a charge for Baptism or administering a blessing

No, it is a gift of Grace from God to His Church

What happens Afterwards ?

everyone in the baptismal party is very welcome to stay on for tea, coffee and a chance to chat.

I would like to know more about arranging a Baptism or Infant Blessing at St Andrews Lhanbryd and Urquhart?