Stockton Methodist Circuit

We extend a warm invitation to be baptised to all.  Whether you are a parent wishing your child to be baptised, or exploring baptism for yourself, all are welcome.

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Baptism is a celebration of God’s love for you in Christ Jesus and your family and is the beginning of a journey of faith within the Christian Community. As the words of the service say:

"For you Jesus Christ came into the word;

for you he lived and showed God's love;

for you he suffered death on the Cross;

for you he triumphed over death, rising to newness of life;

for you he prays at God's right hand;

all this for you, before you could know anything of it.

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In your Baptism, the word of Scripture is fulfilled:

'We love, because God first loved us.'"

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God’s love is for you and for the members of the family.  Here in Stockton we want to share that love with you and help you explore what faith and baptism means for you and your children.

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Our experience is that when families first approach us to seek a baptism for their child they have a very strong sense that it is very important to them but find it quite difficult to put into words why they feel this way.  That’s not something to worry about because many spiritual experiences begin in that way.  It is our job to support you and encourage you as you prepare for the baptism and in the years ahead to help you understand the good news that Jesus Christ brings to you and your family.

 

In the service you will hear about this good news and you will be asked to express your response to God before your gathered friends and family. 

You will be asked questions like these:

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Do you turn away from those things in your life which prevent you from receiving God’s richest blessings for you and your family?

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Do you turn to God, in Jesus, with open hearts and minds in order that you may grow in your knowledge, understanding and love of the God who seeks to bless you with abundant life?

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Will you love and care for your child in body, mind and spirit?

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Will you therefore ensure that they come to feel at home as part of a Christian Church Family?

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Will you by your prayers, words and example show them what it means to be a disciple of Jesus?

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Please get in touch with your local minister who would be very happy to walk with you and guide you through the process.

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Rev Dr Vincent Jambawo    vincent.jambawo@methodist.org.uk      01642 533379

Vincent is the Minister for Carlton, North Billingham and Norton

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Rev Dr Martin Ramsden       martin.ramsden@icloud.com                     07483 863502

Martin is the Minister for Thornaby and Yarm

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Rev Rachel Williams              rachel.williams@methodist.org.uk            01642 508998

Rachel is the Minister for Eaglescliffe Trinity, Greens Lane and St Andrew's