Baptisms
Jesus began his preaching and healing ministry by being baptised in the River Jordan. The vast majority of followers over the two thousand years since then have begun their Christian lives with baptism.
In the Anglican church, many people are baptised when they are babies; however, when people convert to Christianity as adults, they can receive an adult baptism. It is a ‘once and for all’ sacrament, it can not be redone or undone.
At baptism, the symbols of water (cleansing), oil (setting apart) and the candle (to shine as a light in the world) are used.
Baptisms take place during worship at St Richard’s 9:00 am Sunday service or outside worship in exceptional circumstances.
Frequently asked questions
What is a godparent?
A godparent is someone who, with the parents, makes promises to support and encourage the person being baptised in the Christian faith. The godparent, along with the parents of a baby or child, also makes promises on behalf of their Godchild.
What promises to godparents make?
The godparent promises on behalf of the godchild to turn to Christ, to repent of their sins, to reject all that is falseand unjust and renounce evil.
How many Godparents can we have?
There must be at least one godparent or sponsor. Three or four is the usual number.
Can I be baptised with my child?
Yes. Baptism of adults normally also includes confirmation. Please speak with Fr David Covington-Groth about this.
Is there a special requirement to be a godparent?
Godparents must be baptised. If you would like to ask someone who is not baptised to be a godparent, please talk with the priest about this.
More information
If you would like to make enquiries about baptism, please contact Fr David Covington-Groth.
Weddings
Marriage is a gift of God in creation through which husband and wife may know the grace of God.
It is given that a man and woman grow together in love and trust, they shall be united with one another in heart, body and mind, as Christ is united with his bride, the Church.
Frequently asked questions
Can I be married at St Richard’s?
To be married at St Richard’s, at least one of the parties to the marriage must be Baptised.
If I (or my partner) is divorced, may we be married in the Anglican Church?
It is certainly possible to be married in the Anglican Church if you (or your partner) is divorced. To do so requires permission of the Archbishop and certain requirements met.
What do we have to complete to be married at St Richard's?
Couples who marry at St Richard’s will need to complete the usual government legal paperwork. The priest will also conduct marriage preparation with the couple as required.
More information
If you would like to make enquiries about being married at St Richard’s, please contact Fr David Covington-Groth.
Funerals
The loss of a loved one is always a difficult time as we grieve and give thanks for the joy that that person has brought to our lives. As in baptism, we are made one in Christ, so too in death, we are joined with Christ in eternal life.
Several types of funeral services are available at St Richard’s or can be conducted by the parish priest at another location. These services follow the Anglican liturgy and are individualised in accordance to the deceased and/or family wishes.
Frequently asked questions
Do I or my loved one have to be a member of the Church to have a funeral service at St Richard’s or by its priest?
The Church is available for anyone wanting to have a Christian burial. The parish priest will conduct a Christian funeral service at other locations by arrangement.
Can I or my loved one be buried at St Richard’s?
No, however, there is a memorial garden available in which ashes can be placed and a plaque placed on the memorial wall.
Does St Richard’s have an area avaiable for a gathering afterwards?
Yes, St Richard’s has the hall or the garden area available to use. Catering can also be arranged through the parish.
Can I prearrange my funeral service?
The parish priest is more than happy to meet with you to make arrangements for your funeral service. This is often of enormous benefit to your family in a time of grief.
More information
For further information or to make arrangements or receive pastoral care at this time of grief, please contact Fr David Covington-Groth.
