Rites of Passage
(also known as Life Services, or "Hatches, Matches and Dispatches")
Rites of passage, such as baptisms, marriages and funerals, can be held in our local churches. This important function of churches enables whole communities to be involved in these celebrations in the lives of Christians.
Whenever it happens, whether as a baby, child or adult, baptism is at the heart of an amazing journey of faith as a follower of Jesus Christ.
You may want your child to be baptized at a christening, or may have been asked to be a God Parent - this is a special service which is the first step of an amazing journey with God, parents, godparents, friends, family and the church.
Marrying in church is personal, meaningful, spiritual and beautiful, just as you want it to be. Marriage provides a lifetime of opportunity ‘to love and to cherish’ another person. A church wedding focuses on you and your love for each other, but it also mentions that marriage has an impact on society and community.
At the start of the service, the vicar says: “Marriage is a sign of unity and loyalty which all should uphold and honour. It enriches society and strengthens community. No one should enter into it lightly or selfishly, but reverently and responsibly in the sight of almighty God.”
When someone you love has died, it is a time of sadness and pain. The Church is here to help you through your bereavement. Please be assured of our thoughts and prayers. There is a lot to think about as you adjust to
your loss and it can be a bewildering time. We can help answer some of the questions you might have about commemorating the person who has died.
A funeral led by a Church of England minister can be held in church, in a churchyard, by a graveside, or at a crematorium. The minister will be there to support you every step of the way.
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