What happens at a Church of England christening, how to arrange one with your parish, who can be a godparent, the promises, readings and prayers, and what it costs (nothing)
- Cost
- FreeNo fee may be charged for a baptism
- Godparents
- At least threeTwo of the child’s sex, one of the other
- Godparents must be
- BaptizedIn any church; ideally confirmed
- Notice
- At least a weekIn practice, book months ahead
- Where
- In churchUsually your parish church
- When
- Usually SundayOften within the main service
What a christening is
A christening is the service in which a child is baptized: water is poured over their head in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit, and they are welcomed into the Christian church. In the Church of England the two words mean the same thing. “Christening” is the name of the service, and the baptism is the moment at the font, the way a wedding is the service in which a couple is married.
Christians baptize because Jesus told his followers to. After his resurrection he sent them out to make disciples, “baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.” Since the earliest days of the church the water has been read as a picture of two things at once: washing, and going down into death with Christ and rising with him to new life. The Church of England, like the Catholic, Orthodox, Lutheran, Methodist and Reformed churches, baptizes babies as well as adults. A baby cannot yet answer for themselves, so parents and godparents make the promises on their behalf, and the child is brought up to make those promises their own.
A christening is a beginning more than a ceremony. The promises are about the years that follow: praying for the child, showing them how to live, talking with them about faith, and helping them find their place in the church.
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
Christening, thanksgiving, or adult baptism?
Families have three services to choose from. They are not rivals: some families hold a thanksgiving when a baby is born and a christening later.
Christening (infant baptism)
- Who
- Babies and children too young to answer for themselves
- Water
- Yes. This is baptism
- Promises
- Made by parents and godparents for the child
- Godparents
- At least three, baptized (see below)
- Happens
- Once in a lifetime. It is never repeated
The usual choice for families who want their child to belong to the church and grow up in the Christian faith.
Thanksgiving for the Gift of a Child
- Who
- Any child: a newborn, an adopted child, an older child
- Water
- No. This is not baptism
- Promises
- Parents and supporting friends say they will help bring the child up
- Godparents
- None needed; friends may stand with you
- Happens
- Instead of, or before, a christening
A short service to thank God for your child and ask a blessing. Good if you are not ready to make baptism promises, or your chosen friends are not baptized.
Baptism as an older child or adult
- Who
- Anyone old enough to answer for themselves (often from about 12)
- Water
- Yes
- Promises
- Made by the candidate in their own words
- Sponsors
- Two or three, who present them at the font
- Then
- Confirmation by a bishop, ideally soon after
If you were never baptized, it is not too late. The minister will help you prepare, and baptism and confirmation can happen in the same service.
Sources: Church of England on thanksgiving services; the Thanksgiving service text; Canons B 23 and B 24.
How to arrange a christening with your parish
You do not need to be a regular churchgoer, to be married, or to have been baptized yourself. Your parish church will be glad to hear from you. Here is the usual order of things.
- Find your parish churchEvery address in England is in a Church of England parish. Search your postcode on A Church Near You to find the church and its contact details. You may also ask at a church you have a strong link with, such as where you married or grew up.
- Get in touch earlyPhone or email the church office or the vicar. The rules ask for at least a week’s notice, but popular Sundays fill up, so allow two or three months.
- Meet the vicarExpect one or more preparation meetings for parents, and sometimes godparents too, to go through the service and what the promises mean. The minister may not refuse to baptize your child, but may wait until you have had this preparation.
- Choose godparentsAt least three for a child, and every one must be baptized. Tell the church their full names. They must be there in person on the day.
- Pick the date and plan the dayMost christenings happen within the main Sunday service, so the church family can welcome your child. A separate service, usually still on a Sunday, may be possible. Ask about photography, readings and music.
- After the serviceThe baptism is entered in the church’s Baptism Register. A certified copy of the entry carries a small statutory fee; ask the church office.
Rules on notice, preparation and baptizing outside your parish: Canon B 22.
If you live in Wales, Scotland or Ireland, the Anglican churches there (the Church in Wales, the Scottish Episcopal Church and the Church of Ireland) follow their own rules, which are similar in spirit. Ask your local church.
The service, step by step
Every christening in the Church of England follows the same shape, set out in Common Worship: Christian Initiation, though no two feel quite the same. Here is what happens, in order, with the key words you will hear. Read them before the day: they are the promises you are making.
- Step 1
Welcome
The minister greets everyone, especially the family and the child. In many churches the christening is part of the main Sunday service, so the regular congregation is there too. There may be a short prayer of thanks for the child.
- Step 2
Bible reading and talk
On a Sunday the readings are usually the ones set for that day. At a separate service the minister may let you choose one. A short talk explains what baptism means.
- Step 3
The promises
The congregation is asked to support the child. Then parents and godparents promise to pray for the child, set an example, and help them take their place in the church.
People of God, will you welcome these children and uphold them in their new life in Christ?With the help of God, we will.
Common Worship - Step 4
The Decision
Speaking for the child, parents and godparents turn away from evil and turn to Christ. The full form has six questions; many churches use a shorter, simpler form of four.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?I turn to Christ.
Common Worship - Step 5
The sign of the cross
The minister traces a cross on the child’s forehead, sometimes with oil. Parents and godparents may be invited to do the same. Some churches do this after the water instead.
Christ claims you for his own. Receive the sign of his cross.
Common Worship - Step 6
Prayer over the water
Everyone gathers at the font. The minister thanks God for the gift of water, from creation to the crossing of the Red Sea, and prays over it.
- Step 7
Profession of faith
Everyone says what Christians believe, in questions and answers based on the Apostles’ Creed: Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
- Step 8
The baptism
The minister pours water over the child’s head, or dips the child in the font, and says the child’s name. This is the baptism itself, the heart of the service.
N, I baptize you in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Common Worship - Step 9
Welcome into the church
The congregation welcomes the newly baptized, sometimes with applause. Prayers are said for the child and the family, and the Lord’s Prayer.
We welcome you into the fellowship of faith; we are children of the same heavenly Father; we welcome you.
Common Worship - Step 10
The candle
A small candle, lit from the large candle lit earlier in the service, is given to a parent or godparent. Keep it: many families light it again on the anniversary.
Shine as a light in the world to the glory of God the Father.
Common Worship
Words from Common Worship: Christian Initiation and the Additional Baptism Texts in Accessible Language, © The Archbishops’ Council, quoted briefly. Your church may use either form, and the order can vary a little.
Godparents
Godparents promise to pray for the child, to set an example of Christian life, and to help the child grow in faith. They are usually family members or close friends, people you trust to be part of your child’s life for decades, and who are ready to make serious promises in church.
- At least three
- two of the same sex as the child, one of the opposite sex
- Two will do
- one godfather and one godmother, if three really cannot be found
- Baptized
- every godparent, in the Church of England or another church
- Confirmed
- asked for by the Canons, but the minister may waive it
- Parents
- may also be godparents, if the child has at least one other
- Present
- in person on the day: there are no godparents by proxy
From Canon B 23, “Of godparents and sponsors” and the Church of England’s christening FAQs.
The godparents’ promises
At the start of the baptism, parents and godparents answer two questions together, and then speak for the child in the Decision and the profession of faith.
Will you pray for them, draw them by your example into the community of faith and walk with them in the way of Christ?
With the help of God, we will.
Will you care for them, and help them to take their place within the life and worship of Christ’s Church?
With the help of God, we will.
Do you turn to Christ as Saviour?
I turn to Christ.
From Common Worship: Holy Baptism. See also the Church of England’s page on the godparents’ promises.
Godparent questions
Who can be a godparent?
Anyone who has been baptized, in the Church of England or in another church (Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, United Reformed and others), and who is willing to make the promises. The Canons also ask that godparents be confirmed, but the minister can set that requirement aside, and many do.
How many do we need?
At least three: two of the same sex as the child and one of the opposite sex. If three really cannot be found, one godfather and one godmother will do. There is no official maximum; three or four is usual.
Can parents be godparents?
Yes, if they are baptized, as long as the child has at least one other godparent.
Is there a minimum age?
No, but a godparent must be old enough to understand a lifelong commitment. If you are thinking of someone under 18, talk to the vicar first.
What if a friend we love is not baptized?
They cannot be an official godparent, because they would be promising something they have not yet done themselves. They can still take part, read, pray, and be a special adult in your child’s life. Some families hold a Thanksgiving service, where supporting friends need not be baptized.
Can a godparent stand in by proxy?
No. Godparents must be present to make the promises. Someone who cannot come can still play a godparent-like role, unofficially.
Are godparents legal guardians?
No. Who would care for a child if something happened to the parents is decided by a will, not by the christening.
Can godparents be changed later?
Not officially: their names go into the Baptism Register for good. Families can always ask others to take on a similar role.
Bible readings for a christening
At a christening within the Sunday service, the readings are normally the ones set for that Sunday. At a separate service, many ministers will invite you to choose one. Here are ten good choices, with a line from each. Most are passages the service itself draws on; the note under each one says where.
Mark 10:14
Let the children come to me; do not hinder them, for to such belongs the kingdom of God.
Mark 10:14 (ESV)
Quoted at the Presentation in the Church’s accessible-language baptism texts
Parents bring children to Jesus, the disciples try to send them away, and he is indignant. The Church of England is careful to say this verse is not an argument for infant baptism. It is used as a sign of welcome.
Matthew 28:19
Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,
Matthew 28:19 (ESV)
The source of the words said at the font
The risen Jesus sends his followers out. The threefold name the minister says at the water comes from this verse.
John 3:5
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born of water and the Spirit, he cannot enter the kingdom of God.
John 3:5 (ESV)
Echoed in the Introduction: “born again of water and the Spirit”
Jesus talks at night with Nicodemus, a teacher who comes with questions. It is a good reading if you want something conversational.
Romans 6:4
We were buried therefore with him by baptism into death, in order that, just as Christ was raised from the dead by the glory of the Father, we too might walk in newness of life.
Romans 6:4 (ESV)
Behind the service’s picture of “dying to sin” and rising
Paul explains why going under the water is like a burial and coming up is like Easter morning.
Galatians 3:27
For as many of you as were baptized into Christ have put on Christ.
Galatians 3:27 (ESV)
Said if the child is dressed in a white robe
Where the white christening gown comes from: baptism as being clothed with Christ.
Mark 1:11
You are my beloved Son; with you I am well pleased.
Mark 1:11 (ESV)
The account of Jesus’ own baptism
The voice from heaven at the River Jordan. Many families like to hear that God speaks over a child before the child has done anything at all.
Acts 2:39
For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself.
Acts 2:39 (ESV)
Acts 2:38-39 is suggested as a short reading in Common Worship
Peter’s answer on the first Pentecost to people asking what they should do.
1 Peter 2:9
But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV)
1 Peter 2:9-10 is a suggested short reading; the Decision begins with the same image
Darkness into light is the thread that runs from the Decision to the candle.
Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.
Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
Fits the giving of the candle
“Shine as a light in the world” at the end of the service takes up this saying from the Sermon on the Mount.
Psalm 139:13
For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb.
Psalm 139:13 (ESV)
A natural choice for a thanksgiving service
A psalm about being known by God before birth. Read verses 13 to 16.
Prayers for the day and after
The service has its own prayers. These four were written for this page, to be said at home: the night before, by a godparent, on the anniversary and at the party. Copy them freely.
The night before
- Loving God,
- tomorrow we bring our child to you.
- Thank you for every breath and every small hand.
- Be with all who will stand around the font:
- give us joy, and give us honest hearts for the promises.
- Hold our child now, and all the days to come.
- Amen.
For a godchild
- Lord Jesus,
- you welcomed children and blessed them.
- I pray for my godchild today.
- Help me keep my word: to pray, to show the way,
- and to be someone they can talk to about you.
- When I forget, remind me. Amen.
On the anniversary
- Light the christening candle and pray:
- Father, on this day you claimed [name] as your own.
- Thank you that the light given then has not gone out.
- Help [name] shine as a light in the world
- this year and always. Amen.
A grace for the party
- For food and friends, for family near and far,
- for water and light and a new name in your church,
- we give you thanks, O God.
- Bless this table and this child. Amen.
What to wear and bring
There is no dress code. Many families dress up, as for any celebration; others come as they would to a Sunday service.
- The child. A white christening gown is traditional, recalling the white robe of the early church, and a family gown handed down is lovely. It is not required: anything comfortable and easy to lift is fine. The minister will need to reach the top of the head.
- Parents and godparents. Something you can stand at the font in. Godparents may be invited to make the sign of the cross on the child, and to hold them.
- Guests. Smart-casual is usual. If the christening is in the main Sunday service, you are joining a congregation at worship; join in as much or as little as you are comfortable with.
- Bring a small towel and a spare outfit for the child, the godparents (they must be present in person), and something to keep the candle in on the way home.
- Ask first about photographs and video during the service. Many churches welcome them at the font; some prefer pictures before and after.
For guests
Just being there matters: during the service the whole congregation is asked to promise to support the child, and you can answer with everyone else. You do not have to be baptized or a Christian to attend. If you would like to give a gift, a children’s Bible, a keepsake for the candle, or a gift to a children’s charity in the child’s name all fit the day.
What it costs
| Item | Cost | Note |
|---|---|---|
| The baptism itself | Free | No fee may be charged, under the Baptismal Fees Abolition Act 1872 |
| Certified copy of the register entry | Small set fee | Optional; set nationally each year |
| Donation to the church | Up to you | Welcome, never required |
| Gown, party, gifts | Up to you | None of these is needed |
From the Church of England’s guide to parochial fees and christening FAQs.
How other churches differ
Most churches baptize with water in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, but practice varies. In brief:
One or two godparents (“sponsors”): one man, one woman, or one of each. A sponsor must be at least 16 (unless the bishop sets another age), a confirmed Catholic who has received Communion, and not the child’s parent. A baptized Christian of another church may stand alongside as a Christian witness.
The child is immersed three times in the font, then anointed straight away with chrism (chrismation), the Orthodox equivalent of confirmation. The godparent must be an Orthodox Christian.
Baptists baptize people who can profess faith for themselves, usually by full immersion, rather than infants. Many Baptist churches hold a service of thanksgiving or dedication for babies instead.
Source: Baptist Union of Great Britain, Declaration of Principle
These churches also baptize infants with water in the name of the Trinity, and someone baptized in one of these churches can be a godparent at a Church of England christening. Rules on godparents and sponsors vary, so ask the minister.
After the christening
The candle goes home with you. Many families light it on the anniversary of the baptism, say a short prayer, and tell the child the story of the day. Your child is now part of the church wherever you live: you are welcome at any service, toddler group or children’s activity, and your local church will help if you have questions as your child grows. When they are older, your child can be confirmed, making the promises in their own voice.
Frequently asked questions
Is a christening the same as a baptism?
Yes. In the Church of England there is no difference. “Christening” is the name of the service; the baptism is the moment the water is poured. It is like the difference between a wedding and a marriage.
Do we have to go to church, be married, or be baptized ourselves?
No. Parents do not have to be churchgoers, married or baptized. Only the godparents must be baptized. You will be asked to make serious promises, so the vicar will want to talk them through with you.
How old does our child have to be?
There is no minimum or maximum age. Most are babies or toddlers. From around 12, children may be ready to make the promises for themselves.
How much does it cost?
Nothing. No fee may be charged for a baptism, under the Baptismal Fees Abolition Act 1872. Churches may welcome a donation, and a certified baptism certificate has a small set fee.
Can we have it at home, in a hotel or outdoors?
No, except in very unusual circumstances such as serious illness. A christening takes place in church.
Can we have a private christening?
Christenings are usually part of the main Sunday service on purpose: the congregation promises to support your child. Some churches can offer a separate service. Ask your vicar.
Does our child have to be baptized in our own parish?
You can always use your parish church. If you would like another church, ask its vicar; they will seek the goodwill of your own parish’s vicar first.
What if the vicar says no?
A Church of England minister may not refuse to baptize a child from the parish, though they may delay to prepare the family. If there is a real problem, parents can ask the bishop.
Is it ever repeated?
No. Baptism is once for life. Most churches recognize a baptism with water in the name of the Father, Son and Holy Spirit, so it is not repeated if you move between them. Later steps are confirmation, or a service in which an adult reaffirms their baptism.
How do I find a record of my own christening?
Ask the parish church where you lived as a baby to search its Baptism Register. There is a statutory fee for a search and a certified copy.
What is confirmation?
Confirmation is when someone baptized as a child makes the promises for themselves, and a bishop lays hands on them and prays. In the Church of England it often happens in the teenage years or as an adult.
Printable christening planner
Free to print and share, for your family or for a parish to hand to christening families. Our text and layout are licensed CC BY 4.0: credit “Weekday Grace, weekdaygrace.com”.
Sources. The rules on godparents, notice and confirmation are from the Canons of the Church of England, Section B (B 21 to B 27). Service words are from Common Worship: Christian Initiation, Holy Baptism and Common Worship: Additional Baptism Texts in Accessible Language, © The Archbishops’ Council, quoted briefly. Practical guidance follows the Church of England’s own christenings pages, including its FAQs and advice on choosing godparents. Fees: Church of England, Guide to parochial fees. Other churches: Code of Canon Law, canons 872-874; Orthodox Church in America, Baptism; Baptist Union of Great Britain, Declaration of Principle. Every link was checked and live on October 19, 2026, and every rule and quoted line was checked against a saved copy of its source.
Scripture. Scripture quotations are from the ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), © 2001 by Crossway, a publishing ministry of Good News Publishers. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
Who wrote this. Weekday Grace is an independent Bible and faith site. It is not run by or connected with the Church of England; for decisions about your own christening, your parish priest has the final word.
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