A Thanksgiving Service is a celebration of God's gift of parenthood.
It provides a special opportunity to come into the presence of God, in the context of Christian worship, to thank him for the gift of your child. You will be presented with a family candle, a Bible, and a certificate as mementos of the occasion. Prayers will be said for your family and your child will receive a special prayer of protection and blessing.
Godparents are not required for this service but one or two friends, who are committed to supporting your child as they grow up, can act as 'sponsors'.
This service is not the same as Infant Baptism because it does not formally mark your child's entrance into the community of faith. Nor does it specifically require you to make a public declaration of personal faith in Jesus Christ or a promise of ongoing and regular commitment to the life and worship of his Church.
However, some parents may opt for this service because they wish to positively affirm their faith in Jesus Christ whilst leaving baptism until later in their child's life. Bearing this in mind, there is ample opportunity in the service for parents and/or sponsors to add their own prayers if they so wish.
There is no formal preparation for the Thanksgiving Service other than attendance at a mid-week Introductory Meeting at Holy Rood Church Centre.
Thanksgiving Services in Crofton Parish take place on a monthly basis at the 9.30 a.m. Family Service at Holy Rood Church.
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