Life Events
Worship at the Heart of our Community
Baptism
If you live in our parish, we would love to welcome your family into our church family by baptising your child. We believe that God welcomes all people, and Baptism is the first step on the journey of faith.
At St James’, baptisms normally take place on Sundays, during or after the 10.45am service.
Arranging a Baptism
The next step is to contact our Vicar, Fr Simon Lloyd, to arrange a meeting to talk about Baptism — its meaning, significance and possible dates.
If you do not live in St James’ parish, you may still be able to have your child baptised here. Please speak to the Vicar, who will guide you through the process.
Godparents
Once a date is confirmed, we will ask for details of the child, parents and Godparents. Godparents should be baptised and over 18.
Before the Baptism
We warmly encourage families to come along to church before the Baptism, so your child can become familiar with the church and meet the congregation.
You and your family will be very warmly welcomed.
Weddings at St James’
If you live in our parish, you are entitled to be married at St James’ Church.
If one or both of you has been married before, please contact the Vicar, who will be happy to meet with you. In many cases, it is still possible to be married in church, but there are guidelines to follow and a conversation is needed first.
Getting Married at St James’
If you do not live in St James’ parish, you may still be able to be married here if you have a qualifying connection — for example, if you used to live here, your parents live here, or you or your parents were baptised here.
Please contact us to arrange a conversation with the Vicar, who will be able to advise you on the next steps.
Planning Your Wedding
Once your wedding is booked and you have had your initial meeting, the Vicar will meet with you again nearer the date to discuss hymns, readings, vows, banns, fees and everything else connected with your big day.
We would love to help you make this the most special day of your lives.
Funerals
We conduct funerals both at St James’ Church and at local crematoria. Funerals are usually arranged through the local funeral director, and we do our very best to support and serve those who have lost someone they love.
Planning a Funeral
We meet with bereaved families to plan a funeral that is personal and appropriate, giving their loved one a dignified end to life’s pilgrimage.
Services can include a eulogy, readings and specially chosen music, and we will work with you to create a service that reflects and remembers the life of the person who has died.
Throughout the process, we are here to offer guidance, pastoral support and prayer to those who are grieving.
Confirmation
Confirmation is available to those who have been baptised. It is an opportunity to reaffirm your faith and take the next step in your journey as a member of the Church.
Through Confirmation, you affirm for yourself the promises made at your Baptism and prepare to receive Holy Communion — the bread and wine at the altar.
Enquiring About Confirmation
If you are interested in being confirmed, the first step is simply to get in touch with us.
You can make an enquiry by email, or by phone.
