Baptism, Marriage & Funerals
Baptism
Baptism is the sign that someone belongs to Christ. That is why
baptism is sometimes known as christening.
Babies, children and adults can be baptised. Although a baby cannot decide to
follow Christ for themselves, a baptism shows that the child is included as a
member of the church family.
When a child is baptised the family and church members look forward to the day
when the promises made on behalf of the baby become personally real for the
child.
Adults can be baptised if they were not baptised as a child. It is a way for
them to express their faith in Christ.
The baptism service itself is only the start. It is expected that the child will
be brought up as a follower of Jesus. At an infant baptism service the child
will have Godparents. These are special adults chosen by the parents of the
child. Godparents promise to take a special interest in the child as he or she
grows up, and encourage them in their Christian faith. They are also asked to
pray for the child. So being a Godparent is a very important job. There are
usually two male and one female Godparent for a boy, and two female and one male
for a girl. If the parents wish, there can be more than three.
We will baptise residents of both Parishes by arrangement; if you want to chat
or require more information please do not hesitate to contact us.
Marriage
What Does the Bible Say ...About Marriage?
"Since they are no longer two but one, let no one separate them, for God has
joined them together."
(The Bible, Matthew chapter 19 verse 6)
In Christian marriage the couple are joined together by God in a life-long
partnership.
"... Submit to one another ... husbands must love your wives with the same love
Christ showed the church. He gave up his life for her ... In the same way;
husbands ought to love their wives as they love their own bodies."
(The Bible, Ephesians chapter 5 verses 21 - 28)
St Mary and St Chads and St John the Evangelist are beautiful Churches in which
to make the vows, before God, that will join you together as man and wife.
We can offer you a full wedding package, the choir will be happy to sing at your
wedding; and the bell ringers will ring out your good news across the community
(Brewood only).
Weddings are by arrangement and we will be happy to discuss any issues and the
legal requirements to make this a very special day.
Funerals
Who can have a Christian funeral?
Anyone who lives in Brewood or Bishops Wood can have their funeral conducted by
either the vicar or the reader. They do not need to have been a regular
churchgoer.
Revd. Clive Burgess or one of the team can conduct a funeral service either in
the parish church or at the crematorium. Simply ask the undertaker to arrange
this.
How do I book a funeral?
The undertaker will arrange a date for the funeral with Revd Clive Burgess and
give him your name and phone number. He will then phone you and arrange
to see you.
How do I make sure the funeral isn't impersonal?
It is important that the funeral of your loved one reflects the person you
remember. At your meeting, one of the ministry team will ask you about them,
their life and what you remember as special about them. If there are particular
readings or music that they liked, or that you want to remember them by, then
these can be included in the service.
Graveyards and Monuments
Both Parishes have a graveyard that is still in use. If you have questions about
the church graveyards or monuments are decided by the chancellor of the diocese
and Revd Clive Burgess can advise you on what is allowed
What if I need more help?
Just contact the vicarage or an undertaker
Revd CliveBurgess
TheVicarage, 15 Sandy Lane, Brewood ST19 9ET
Office 01902 850368
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