Baptisms
Baptism is the rite whereby people become Christians. It washes away sin, gives the gift of eternal life and makes us part of Christ's Body, the Church. It is administered unfailingly with water in the name of the Holy Trinity - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. It is a moment of simple joy when through the unspectacular action of a little water pouring over a person's head, they are transformed into a child of God, a member of his royal priestly family and given gifts and graces that no amount of evil and darkness can destroy.
If you live within the parish boundaries or you are a member of our congregation, you are very welcome to have your child baptised at Liverpool Parish Church or to be baptised yourself. We always encourage people from other parishes, however, to make their spiritual home in their local parish church. There are some people, nonetheless, who have a particular link with St Nick's (e.g. parents who were married here etc.); under these circumstances we would be very happy to talk with you about baptising you or your child.
Baptism can take place either within the Sunday Eucharist or as a separate service later in the morning. Regular members of the congregation are especially encouraged to have their baptism take place when the rest of the church family is present at the 9.30 Parish Eucharist.
Baptisms are not normally held during Lent to allow a greater focus on the austerity of the season. Baptism is a way of sharing in Christ's resurrection and so is not suited to the time of year when the church is preparing for the celebration of Easter.
Enquiries about baptism should be directed in the first instance to Ms Joyce Ashcroft, Parish Reader, who will be pleased to advise. Joyce can be contacted via the Parish Office.
Baptism is perfectly proper both for adults and children. A brief time of preparation and rehearsal is required with the parents of any infant being baptised. For an adult coming for baptism, this is usually combined with Confirmation (the giving of the gifts of the Spirit and taking of adult membership of the church) and would occur after a longer period of preparation.
Anyone who is already baptised who is interested in being prepared for Confirmation or just exploring their faith more deeply is welcome to contact Fr Robert Mackley, our Assistant Priest, on 0151 236 5287 or email frrobert@livpc.co.uk.