Life Events
Baptism / Christening
Jesus said, ‘I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.’ (John 10.10)
We welcome all enquiries for the baptism/christening of children and adults.
Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives, the first step in response to God’s love. For all involved, particularly the candidates but also parents, godparents and sponsors, it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ, making serious promises and declaring the faith. The wider community of the local church and friends welcome the new Christian, promising support and prayer for the future. Hearing and doing these things provides an opportunity to remember our own baptism and reflect on the progress made on that journey, which is now to be shared with this new member of the Church.
There is some useful information here https://churchofenglandchristenings.org/
The attached link gives more information about the service itself: https://churchofenglandchristenings.org/stepbystep/
Please contact the Rector by email on vicar@ybsbenefice.org.uk, to discuss your circumstances further.
Confirmation
Once children are old enough to make their own promises, or once baptised adults are ready, they can be confirmed into the church. The service is taken by a Bishop rather than the parish priest. The promises are made after a period of education and conversation, as the individual prepares to affirm their faith in front of witnesses. It is a joy to welcome and accompany those who are on this joureny. https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/confirmations/confirmation-faqs
The bishop will generally hold a confirmation service annually close to or in our benefice. It will normally be a separate service rather than part of the normal Sunday worship and with many candidates and their families there, it is a really joyful celebration of our faith. Due to Covid-19 the arrangement of confirmation services is taking place differently. Please do contact the Rector to find out more.
email: vicar@ybsbenefice.org.uk tel: 01865 372714
Gravestones and memorials
These can be a heartfelt expression of love for a dear one but there are some guidelines and rules designed to keep the balance between expression and order. The churchyard regulations are here. Please note that in our diocese "local stone" refers to limestone or sandstone. Although in past years there were different regulations, we ask that you do follow the current regulations when making a request. The photos below show acceptable finishes for St Michaels. What is not acceptable is dark grey granite or black granite. Polished stone is already prohibited under the churchyard regulations.
There is a form to fill in and a small fee to pay when requesting approval for installing or modifying a gravestone or monument. The form is at the end of the churchyard regulations mentioned above and the current fees are here
