Question 1

What is Confirmation?

Accepted Answer

Confirmation is a public declaration of Christian faith.

Those who have been baptised affirm the promises made at their baptism and receive prayer from a bishop for the strengthening of the Holy Spirit.

Confirmation is:

A personal “yes” to Christian faith
A commitment to follow Christ
An affirmation of belonging to the Church
A moment of prayer for the strengthening of the Holy Spirit

After Confirmation, you are considered a full adult member of the Church of England.

You may:

Serve as a godparent
Stand for election to the PCC (subject to age requirements)
Deepen your involvement in church life

Confirmation is not the end of a journey, but a step forward in faith.

Question 2

Who can be baptised?

Accepted Answer

Any child can be baptised at St Andrew’s Church, regardless of the family’s church attendance or background. Baptism welcomes a child into the Christian faith and the life of the church.

Question 3

What is a Church of England school?

Accepted Answer

A Church of England school is a state-funded school with a Christian foundation. It follows the national curriculum while reflecting Christian values in its ethos, worship, and community life.

Most are either:

Voluntary Aided (VA) schools
Voluntary Controlled (VC) schools
Academies with a Church of England foundation

Question 4

Can we get married in a Church of England church?

Accepted Answer

You can marry in a Church of England church if one of you:

Lives in the parish
Is on the church’s electoral roll
Has a qualifying connection (for example, you were baptised there, confirmed there, or a parent lived or worshipped there for at least six months)

If you are unsure, the vicar can help you determine eligibility.

Question 5

Can anyone have a funeral at your church?

Accepted Answer

Anyone who lives in the parish has the legal right to a Church of England funeral, whether or not they attended church.

Others may also be eligible if they have a qualifying connection. Please contact us to discuss your circumstances.

Question 6

What is the Electoral Roll?

Accepted Answer

Every C of E church has an electoral roll which is a list of all the ‘members’ of our church who are able to vote at our APCM (Annual Parochial Church Meeting). It’s also a really useful record of who thinks of themselves as part of St. Andrew’s and how many people are part of this wonderful church!

Every 6 years we have to clear our electoral roll completely and start again and 2025 is one of those years so we need everyone who is eligible to go online and register or re-register for our electoral roll to say that you are part of this church.

Question 7

Who can be baptised as an adult?

Accepted Answer

Any adult who wishes to publicly affirm their faith in Jesus Christ can be baptised, whether or not they were baptised as a child.

Question 8

Do we have to be baptised?

Accepted Answer

You do not have to be baptised to marry in a Church of England church, but baptism is encouraged as the foundation of Christian faith.

Question 9

Why should I join St Andrews Electoral Roll?

Accepted Answer

You don't have to join the electoral roll to be an active part of St Andrews but joining the Roll is compulsory if you wish to:

Stand for election to the PCC or other synodical council.
Attend the APCM (our annual church meeting) on May 11th and participate in voting.

The other big benefit to St Andrews is that a stronger, more active electoral roll can lead to better representation for our church in the wider Church of England, like at deanery synods, or diocesan synods.

Question 10

What does a Church of England funeral service include?

Accepted Answer

A Christian funeral:

Gives thanks for the person’s life
Commends them into God’s care
Offers comfort and hope in the resurrection

The service usually includes Bible readings, prayers, a sermon or reflection, and commendation.

Question 11

Why is a bishop involved?

Accepted Answer

In the Church of England, Confirmation is normally led by a bishop as a sign of unity with the wider Church and the historic apostolic tradition.

Question 12

What is the purpose of adult baptism?

Accepted Answer

Adult baptism is a way to:

Begin or deepen your personal journey of faith
Publicly declare your commitment to Christ
Receive the gift of the Holy Spirit
It is often a significant step of faith and belonging in the church community.

Question 13

Are Church of England schools only for Christian families?

Accepted Answer

No. Church of England schools serve the whole community.

However, when applications exceed available places, faith-based oversubscription criteria may apply in line with the school’s published admissions policy.

Question 14

Do parents need to be Church members?

Accepted Answer

No. Families of all faith backgrounds are welcome to have their child baptised. Parents are encouraged to attend church, but membership is not required.

Question 15

Do we have to attend church regularly?

Accepted Answer

Regular attendance is not required, but couples are encouraged to engage with the church community and to prepare thoughtfully for Christian marriage.

Question 16

Who can join St Andrew's Electoral Roll?

Accepted Answer

Joining the Electoral Roll is for adults (age 16+ in 2025) and must be fully renewed every 6 years by completing this application.

Each member of your household that are an active part of St Andrews Community should fill out their own application.

Question 17

Do I have to be baptised first?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Confirmation follows baptism.

If you have not been baptised, you can usually be baptised and confirmed during the same service.

Question 18

Do I need to be confirmed first?

Accepted Answer

No. Adult baptism can be followed by confirmation, sometimes even in the same service. Confirmation is a separate step of personal commitment.

Question 19

How are places allocated?

Accepted Answer

All admissions must follow:

The School Admissions Code (national law)
The school’s published Admissions Policy

If a school is oversubscribed, places are usually allocated in order of criteria such as:

Looked-after and previously looked-after children
Children with an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP)
Children living in the catchment area
Children with demonstrated church attendance (if applicable)
Distance from the school

Each school sets its own specific order of criteria.

Question 20

What is the role of godparents?

Accepted Answer

Godparents support the child’s Christian upbringing. They:

Pray for the child
Set an example of Christian living
Help nurture the child’s faith journey

Church of England guidance recommends at least one godparent (who is baptised and confirmed) but families often choose two or three.

Question 21

Where can the funeral take place?

Accepted Answer

A funeral may be held:

In church
At a crematorium
At the graveside
Or a combination (e.g. church service followed by burial/cremation)

Question 22

How is adult baptism conducted?

Accepted Answer

Baptism can take place in two main ways:

Pouring or sprinkling water over the head.
Full immersion – the person is gently submerged in water, symbolising dying to the old life and rising with Christ.

You can discuss your preferred method with the vicar when arranging the baptism.

Question 23

What happens during a Church of England wedding service?

Accepted Answer

The service normally includes:

Bible readings
A sermon
The marriage vows
The exchange of rings
Prayers and a blessing

Many services also include hymns and Holy Communion.

The legal marriage takes place within the service itself.

Question 24

How do I join the Electoral Roll for St Andrew's Church?

Accepted Answer

All you need to do is click here and fill in the form.

Question 25

What happens during the Confirmation service?

Accepted Answer

The service includes:

Renewal of baptism promises
A declaration of faith
The bishop laying hands on each candidate
Prayer for the strengthening of the Holy Spirit

Often, Holy Communion is also celebrated.

Question 26

What is a Supplementary Information Form (SIF)?

Accepted Answer

A SIF is a form used by some faith schools to gather information about church attendance or religious commitment.

It must be completed in addition to the local authority application form where required.

Question 27

Can we be buried in the churchyard?

Accepted Answer

Our churchyard is now full for new full burials. As a historic Grade II* listed church building, the churchyard has served the parish for many generations and space is now very limited.

However, we may be able to offer:

Interment of ashes (subject to availability)
Re-opening of existing family graves (where legally permitted)

Please contact us to discuss individual circumstances.

Question 28

Who can be a godparent?

Accepted Answer

Must be at least 16 years old
Must be baptised
Ideally confirmed (if a member of the Church of England or another Christian denomination)
Friends or family are usually chosen

Non-Christian or non-baptised supporters can also attend, but they do not act as godparents in the legal sense.

Question 29

Can adult baptism take place outside the church?

Accepted Answer

Yes, with the vicar’s agreement. Immersion can occur in a natural body of water, but the service must follow the Church of England liturgy.

Question 30

Can divorced people remarry in church?

Accepted Answer

In some circumstances, yes. The Church of England recognises that relationships can break down. A divorced person may be remarried in church at the discretion of the vicar, following a conversation about the previous marriage and future intentions.

Question 31

What counts as “church attendance”?

Accepted Answer

The definition is set out clearly in the school’s admissions policy.

Typically, it refers to regular worship over a defined period (for example, twice monthly for two years), though this varies by school.

The school’s policy will specify:

The frequency required
The qualifying time period
Which denominations are recognised

Question 32

Is there space for ashes to be buried?

Accepted Answer

We may have limited space for the burial of cremated remains (ashes) in our churchyard. Availability depends on current capacity and churchyard regulations.

Ashes may be:

Buried in a designated area
Placed in an existing family grave (where permitted)
Scattered in accordance with diocesan regulations

Please speak with us to confirm availability.

Question 33

How is the baptism performed?

Accepted Answer

Water is poured or sprinkled on the child’s head
Parents and godparents make promises on behalf of the child
The vicar blesses the child in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit

Question 34

How old do you have to be?

Accepted Answer

There is no national fixed age, but candidates are expected to be mature enough to make their own commitment of faith.

Many parishes confirm young people in their early teens and adults at any age.

Question 35

What preparation is needed?

Accepted Answer

Preparation usually includes a few informal meetings with Father Dan Henderson to:

Explore your faith journey
Understand the promises made during baptism
Discuss the method of baptism (pouring or immersion)
Prepare for the service itself

Question 36

Can an existing family grave be reopened?

Accepted Answer

In many cases, yes — provided:

The Exclusive Right of Burial allows it
Space remains within the grave
Diocesan regulations permit

Documentation may be required. We can guide you through this process.

Question 37

Who completes the clergy reference?

Accepted Answer

If a faith criterion applies, a member of the clergy or authorised church officer may be asked to confirm attendance based on factual knowledge.

Clergy can only confirm attendance where they have sufficient evidence. They cannot provide preferential treatment.

Question 38

Do we need to attend preparation classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. At St Andrew’s Church, a short preparation session with Father Dan Henderson helps families:

Understand the meaning of baptism
Learn the promises parents and godparents make
Prepare for the service itself

Preparation usually takes place over one or two informal meetings.

Question 39

Can same-sex couples marry in a Church of England church?

Accepted Answer

At present, the Church of England conducts marriage services for opposite-sex couples. Clergy may offer prayers of blessing following a civil same-sex marriage, in line with current guidance.

Question 40

Is Confirmation required to receive Holy Communion?

Accepted Answer

No. In many Church of England parishes, baptised children and adults may receive Communion before Confirmation.

However, Confirmation is traditionally seen as a mature affirmation of faith and is often encouraged before taking on certain leadership roles.

Question 41

How much does it cost?

Accepted Answer

The Church of England sets a nationally agreed statutory (legal) fees for weddings, which covers:

The vicar
The church building
The administration and legal paperwork

If you marry in the parish where you both live:

Marriage service: £566
Publication of banns: £39

Total statutory fee: £605

If one or both of you live in a different parish than the one you are marrying in:

Marriage service: £566
Publication of banns in marrying parish: £39
Publication of banns in home parish(es): £39 each (if applicable)
Certificate of banns from other parish(es): £20 each (if applicable)

Typical total ranges from around £637 up to £723 depending on how many banns/certificates are needed.

There may be additional costs for:

Verger:  £50-75
Organist/musician:  £150
Choir
Bell ringing £150-200
Flowers/decoration
Heating

Your parish will provide a full breakdown.

Note on Common or Special Licences

If banns cannot be read in time because of timing or because you live abroad, you may be advised to apply for a Common Licence — this replaces banns and typically has its own fee (often around £200).

Question 42

Can adults have sponsors or godparents?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Adult sponsors:

Support you in your faith journey
Pray for you and encourage your spiritual growth
Attend the baptism service with you

While godparents are traditional for children, adult sponsors play a similar role.

Question 43

Is Confirmation necessary to be a godparent?

Accepted Answer

Church law requires godparents to be baptised and confirmed (or ready and desirous to be confirmed).

Question 44

Who owns the churchyard?

Accepted Answer

Churchyards remain consecrated ground under the authority of the diocesan bishop. The Parochial Church Council (PCC) manages day-to-day matters, but all burials must follow diocesan regulations.

Question 45

Can we choose the date?

Accepted Answer

Yes, dates are arranged with Father Dan Henderson. Baptisms may take place:

During a regular Sunday service
In a dedicated baptism service
On a special occasion agreed with the church

Question 46

Do we need to attend church to get a place?

Accepted Answer

If the school is not oversubscribed, all applicants may be offered places regardless of faith background.

If the school is oversubscribed and faith criteria apply, church attendance may be one of several criteria used to prioritise places.

Question 47

What does Grade II* listed mean for funerals?

Accepted Answer

As a Grade II* listed building, our church is recognised as being of particular historical and architectural importance.

This affects:

Permanent memorials
Grave markers
Alterations to the churchyard
Installation of plaques or benches

All memorials must comply with diocesan churchyard regulations and may require formal approval.

Question 48

Do we need banns?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, yes. Banns are a public announcement of your intention to marry and are read in church on three Sundays before the wedding.

If you live in different parishes, banns may need to be read in both.

Question 49

What if we attend another denomination?

Accepted Answer

Church of England schools often recognise regular attendance at other Christian churches that are members of Churches Together in England or the Evangelical Alliance.

The specific policy will define qualifying churches.

Question 50

Can the baptism be part of a larger service?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Families may choose to have the baptism during a Sunday service with the congregation, or as a standalone baptism service.

Question 51

What if I was already baptised as a child in another denomination?

Accepted Answer

The Church of England recognises baptism in other Christian denominations if water was used in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Adult baptism is not repeated in that case, but confirmation may follow.

Question 52

What if I was baptised in another denomination?

Accepted Answer

If you were baptised with water in the name of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, your baptism is recognised. You would not be baptised again but may be confirmed in the Church of England.

Question 53

Is there a fee?

Accepted Answer

No statutory fee applies for baptisms. Baptism is offered freely as a sacrament of the church. Voluntary donations are welcome to support the life and ministry of the church.

Question 54

Can we choose our own music and readings?

Accepted Answer

Music and readings should be appropriate for a Christian service.

At least one Bible reading is required.
Secular music is usually suitable for entry or exit but not during the core liturgy.

The vicar or organist will guide you.

Question 55

Can we choose any headstone or memorial?

Accepted Answer

No. Because the churchyard is consecrated ground and part of a listed site:

There are regulations about size, material, wording, and design
Certain stones (e.g. polished black granite) may not be permitted
Additional inscriptions may require permission

We will provide a copy of current churchyard regulations.

Question 56

What if I was already confirmed in another denomination?

Accepted Answer

In most cases, Confirmation is not repeated. Instead, you may be formally welcomed into the Church of England.

Question 57

Is there a fee for adult baptism?

Accepted Answer

No statutory fee applies. Baptism is offered freely. Voluntary donations to support the church’s ministry are welcome but not required.

Question 58

What if we are not Christian?

Accepted Answer

Families of all faiths and none are welcome to apply.

If places remain after higher-priority criteria are met, applications are considered according to the published admissions criteria.

Question 59

Can family and friends attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Adult baptisms are usually celebrated with family and friends. The number of attendees can be discussed with the vicar for practical arrangements.

Question 60

Can we write our own vows?

Accepted Answer

No. The legal vows in the Church of England service must be used. These express the lifelong nature of Christian marriage. Some additional personal words may be possible outside the formal vows, depending on local guidance.

Question 61

Can family and friends attend?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Baptisms are usually attended by close family and friends. Larger gatherings are welcome, but it is best to discuss numbers with the vicar for logistical planning.

Question 62

Do I need to attend preparation classes?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Confirmation preparation helps candidates explore:

The Christian faith
The meaning of baptism
Prayer and worship
What it means to live as a follower of Jesus

Preparation usually takes place over several sessions.

Question 63

When should we start attending church if applying under faith criteria?

Accepted Answer

Admissions policies usually require a sustained period of attendance prior to application.

It is important to read the school’s policy carefully and plan well in advance of the application deadline.

Question 64

Can we reserve a burial plot?

Accepted Answer

In many Church of England parishes, it is possible to apply for a faculty to reserve a grave space — but only where space remains.

If the churchyard is full, new reservations are usually not possible.

What's on during the week? (Scroll down for Events coming up)

What is Confirmation?

Who can be baptised?

What is a Church of England school?

Can we get married in a Church of England church?

Can anyone have a funeral at your church?

What is the Electoral Roll?

Who can be baptised as an adult?

Do we have to be baptised?

Why should I join St Andrews Electoral Roll?

What does a Church of England funeral service include?

Why is a bishop involved?

What is the purpose of adult baptism?

Are Church of England schools only for Christian families?

Do parents need to be Church members?

Do we have to attend church regularly?

Who can join St Andrew's Electoral Roll?

Do I have to be baptised first?

Do I need to be confirmed first?

How are places allocated?

What is the role of godparents?

Where can the funeral take place?

How is adult baptism conducted?

What happens during a Church of England wedding service?

How do I join the Electoral Roll for St Andrew's Church?

What happens during the Confirmation service?

What is a Supplementary Information Form (SIF)?

Can we be buried in the churchyard?

Who can be a godparent?

Can adult baptism take place outside the church?

Can divorced people remarry in church?

What counts as “church attendance”?

Is there space for ashes to be buried?

How is the baptism performed?

How old do you have to be?

What preparation is needed?

Can an existing family grave be reopened?

Who completes the clergy reference?

Do we need to attend preparation classes?

Can same-sex couples marry in a Church of England church?

Is Confirmation required to receive Holy Communion?

How much does it cost?

Can adults have sponsors or godparents?

Is Confirmation necessary to be a godparent?

Who owns the churchyard?

Can we choose the date?

Do we need to attend church to get a place?

What does Grade II* listed mean for funerals?

Do we need banns?

What if we attend another denomination?

Can the baptism be part of a larger service?

What if I was already baptised as a child in another denomination?

What if I was baptised in another denomination?

Is there a fee?

Can we choose our own music and readings?

Can we choose any headstone or memorial?

What if I was already confirmed in another denomination?

Is there a fee for adult baptism?

What if we are not Christian?

Can family and friends attend?

Can we write our own vows?

Can family and friends attend?

Do I need to attend preparation classes?

When should we start attending church if applying under faith criteria?

Can we reserve a burial plot?

Can adult baptism be part of a larger service?

What if we live outside the parish?

Can ashes be scattered?

What is marriage preparation?

Is there a fee?

Does attending church guarantee admission?

How long does the service take?

What if we live outside the parish?

Who makes the admissions decision?

Can a child have more than one godparent?

How much does a Church of England funeral cost?

What should I wear?

How do you define “regular worship”?

Is the church legally authorised to conduct marriages?

What are burial fees?

What's on during the week?
(Scroll down for Events coming up)