Baptisms, Weddings, and Funerals

Birth, marriage, and death are important landmarks for all of us and for our families and friends. We want to rejoice at the birth of a baby, or when a couple make a commitment to each other in marriage; likewise, when someone dies, we need support to mourn their passing, to give thanks for their life, and to share our sorrow with other people.

Many turn to the Church for pastoral support, prayer and advice at these important milestones, even if they do not go to Church regularly. We are delighted to offer help and support at these times, so please do not feel embarrassed or reluctant to ask – it is part of what we do.

Our role as a Parish church means that the buildings of St Martin’s Church and St Paul’s Church have held celebrations or commemorations for every season of life. Our experienced team are happy to help gently advise and guide you in creating a service that will help you recognise and share key moments for you and your loved ones.

Weddings at St Martin’s and St Paul’s

Marriage is a joyful and sacred milestone, and we are here to support all couples who wish to celebrate their commitment before God. Whether you are planning a traditional Church of England wedding, or seeking pastoral prayer and blessing for your relationship, we are glad to walk with you

Who Can Marry in Church

You may be eligible to marry in St Martin’s or St Paul’s if you meet one of the following criteria:

• You live in the parish of St Martin’s & St Paul’s.

• You or your parents have a qualifying connection to the parish, for example having been baptised or married here.

• You worship regularly in the parish (for at least six months prior to the wedding).

• Special permission from the Diocese may be possible in other cases.

The Church of England celebrates Holy Matrimony as the lifelong, faithful union of one man and one woman. Couples who meet the eligibility criteria may be married in church following Church of England regulations, including giving notice at the local register office and completing the necessary legal paperwork.

For more information, see the Church of England Weddings guidance.

Prayers of Love and Faith for Same-Sex Couples

We are an inclusive church and welcome all couples to receive pastoral care, prayer, and thanksgiving for their relationships. Same-sex couples may receive Prayers of Love and Faith, which offer dedication, thanksgiving, and ask for God’s blessing, even though same-sex marriages cannot currently be conducted in church due to legal restrictions.

Planning Your Service

We can help you plan a service that reflects your story and faith, including readings, prayers, music, and ways to involve family and friends.

Christenings and Adult Baptisms at St Martin’s and St Paul’s

Baptism is one of the Church’s most joyful sacraments — a way of thanking God for life, welcoming someone into the Christian family, and marking the start of a lifelong journey of faith. It can be for babies, children, young people, or adults at any stage of life. (Church of England Adult Baptism)

Christenings (Infant or Child Baptism)

A christening is the name often used when a baby or young child is baptized in church. During the service:

• Water is used as a sign of new life and welcome into the Christian community.

• Parents and godparents make promises on behalf of the child to help them grow in faith.

• Friends and family share in prayer and thanksgiving.

The christening is a sacrament of initiation into the Church and a way of committing to a life of faith. (Church of England Christenings

There is no charge for the christening service itself. You don’t have to be a regular churchgoer, or even have been christened yourself to ask for a child to be baptized.

Godparents

Godparents play an important role in supporting the child’s spiritual life. Church of England guidance suggests at least three godparents — ideally with a balance of genders — who are themselves baptised Christians, and at least one of whom is confirmed; but clergy are happy to talk through this with you.

Adult Baptism

If you were not christened as a child, or if you’ve come to faith later in life, you are very welcome to be baptised as an adult or young person. Adult baptism is a powerful public expression of commitment to follow Jesus Christ and is recognised as a sacrament of the Church.

Often, adults preparing for baptism also explore confirmation, a service of prayer and laying on of hands, but your minister will guide you through this when you get in touch. (Church of England Adult Baptism)

Planning a Baptism or Christening

Our parish team is here to support you with:

• answering questions and explaining what happens at a service

• helping you choose readings, prayers, and music

• preparing parents, godparents, and adult candidates for the sacrament

If you’d like to talk about arranging a christening or adult baptism at St Martin’s or St Paul’s, please contact the parish office.

Funerals at St Martin’s and St Paul’s

Losing someone we love is one of life’s most difficult experiences. Funerals provide a sacred space to mourn, to give thanks for a life, and to find comfort in faith and the support of family and friends. The Church of England offers guidance, prayer, and pastoral care, which can be provided by our ministry team, to help families through this time. (Church of England Funerals)

Funerals in Church

In the past thirty years, many families have chosen to have the funeral service at the crematorium itself, but this can come with long waits and time restrictions. Therefore it is becoming more common for families to go back to one of the most traditional uses for a church building as ancient and holy place to say farewell to our loved ones and commend them to God:

• More families are starting to choose to hold the whole service in church and then allow the undertakers to arrange a direct cremation at a later time. This option often allows funerals to take place sooner without the restricted timeslots of the crematorium chapel

• Others prefer to have the church service first and then proceed to the crematorium later on the same day for the committal.

• For those who wish, the funeral of course still take place entirely at the crematorium.

A service in church can provide more space and time for reflection, and can sometimes happen more promptly than waiting for a crematorium, offering families flexibility to create a farewell that feels right for them.

At St Paul’s, the parish centre next door provides a welcoming space for wakes or gatherings after the service, helping families come together in comfort and support.

Planning a Funeral

Our ministry team aims to be flexible and supportive, helping you create a service that reflects your loved one’s life, your wishes, and the needs of those attending. We can assist with:

• Planning readings, prayers, and music

• Providing organists or playing music via our sound system and screen

• Tailoring the service to your family’s needs

  Getting in touch

  Our ministry team is here to support you through all of life’s important milestones. Whether you are planning a wedding, christening, adult baptism, or funeral, or simply want to ask a question or talk things through, please do not hesitate to get in touch using the contact us button above.

  We are happy to answer your questions, offer guidance, and help you plan a service that is meaningful and personal for you and your loved ones