Welcome
A baptism is a joyous occasion for families and communities, signifying a child's entrance into the Christian faith and a promise of their spiritual upbringing. It's a time of celebration, hope, and expressing belief in God's grace and love for the child.
We offer families the choice of celebrating the baptism during the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Eucharist, alongside the wider church congregation, or at a more intimate 12:30 p.m. service with family and friends. Whichever option you choose, a trained baptism visitor will support you throughout the process—from your initial questions, through a rehearsal, and on the day itself.
Thinking about adult baptism?
The notes below relate to a baby’s or child's baptism, but adults are very welcome too. Please contact the Parish Office for a chat.
Who can be baptised?
Anyone can be baptised at St James’. If you live outside the parish, please let your own priest know first—this is both courtesy and Church of England protocol. Parents need to agree to the baptism and to promise to help their child grow in faith.
Your pathway
- Optional: Why not drop into the 10:00 a.m. Sunday Eucharist, enjoy a coffee and get a feel for St James’.
- Contact the Parish Office: Call us on 01392 420 407 or email us on office@stjamesexeter.org
- Informal chat – a baptism visitor meets you at home or in church to talk about dates, the service and godparents.
- Baptism day – choose either the 10 a.m. Eucharist (about 75 minutes) or the 12:30 p.m. service (about 40 minutes).
Godparents
- Aim for at least three if you can; godparents need to be baptised.
- Godparents promise to pray for the child and model Christian faith.
- Parents may act as godparents for their own children provided there is at least one other godparent.
On the day
Photos are welcome after the end of the service around the font. Each candidate receives a certificate and a candle to keep.
Cost
Baptism is free. You may give a voluntary gift to support our children’s work if you wish. If you would like a baptism certificate, there is a £19 fee. See our parish fees here.
After the day
You are always welcome at Messy Church on the first Wednesday in the month at 3.30 p.m. and JAM (Jesus and Me) or 11 Ups on Sunday mornings at 9.50 a.m., except on the first Sunday in the month.
Frequently asked questions
- Do parents have to be baptised? No, but you will make the baptism promises; speak with a member of clergy if unsure.
- What should we wear? Anything comfortable. Christening gowns are optional.
- Can older children or adults be baptised? Yes—preparation is tailored to each age. There is an option of baptism being followed by confirmation for older candidates.
Learn more: churchofenglandchristenings.org offers step-by-step guides and ideas.
Ready to talk?
Parish Office, St James’ Church, Mount Pleasant Road, Exeter EX4 7AH
01392 420 407 | office@stjamesexeter.org
We look forward to walking this journey with you.