Dear friends,
Baptism is one of the most amazing gifts that God gives us. It is an outward sign of an invisible grace. Some of us are baptised as children, some of us are baptised later in life as we find Jesus and wish to commit ourselves to Him. Some of us are not yet baptised (chat to me if you would like to change this!).
In the waters of baptism, be it a font, a river, or any other body of water, God washes away all of our sin and clothes us with new life. Baptism marks the start of a life long journey of faith where we can grow in our relationship with the living God. For all involved, but particularly parents, godparents and sponsors, it is a joyful moment when we rejoice in what God has done for us in Christ as we give thanks for our children.
Recently we had the wonderful privilege of baptising Amelie from Aldworth, in the River Thames from the beach at Lower Basildon behind St. Bartholomew’s Church. It was a glorious day and memorable in so many ways. Amelie inspired us all by sharing why she wanted to be baptised and then she said some baptismal promises to God. We stepped into the refreshingly cool waters of the Thames and baptised her by fully immersing her (photo below). As Amelie rose out of the water she was greeted with huge cheers and celebration from her family and friends, and even the wild swimmers using the river! It was both a moving and marvellous occasion. If you’re thinking about baptism, let me encourage you to take the plunge (bad joke, I know), as a first step in response to God’s love.
I hope you have a lovely week.
Love,
Grant
Final Chance - Don’t miss the Summer Concert
SERVICES THIS WEEKend
across the villages
See all upcoming events on our website
CAN YOU HELP?
whole benefice Service next Sunday 30th
morning prayer and worship is now having a break for the summer.
The Guitar is away
Morning prayer and worship will pause for a few weeks. We look forward to seeing you all again in September.
LAtest episode of our Podcast
