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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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

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.

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.

A funeral may be held: In church At a crematorium At the graveside Or a combination (e.g. church service followed by burial/cremation)

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yes. Baptism may take place: During a Sunday service with the congregation In a dedicated baptism service Alongside confirmation if appropriate

Families from outside the parish are welcome. The vicar may ask for a letter of permission from the child’s local parish priest if the family lives elsewhere, according to Church of England guidance.

Scattering of ashes in consecrated ground must follow diocesan guidelines and requires prior agreement.

Clergy will normally meet with you before the wedding to: Explain the service Discuss the meaning of Christian marriage Complete legal paperwork Some parishes also offer marriage preparation sessions or courses.

There is no statutory fee for Confirmation. It is a service of the Church and offered freely.

No. If there are more applicants meeting the faith criteria than places available, additional criteria (such as distance) will apply.

Typically, the service lasts 20–30 minutes, but it may be slightly longer if combined with confirmation or a Sunday service.

You may still be able to marry in the church if you have a qualifying connection (family ties, baptism, confirmation, etc.). The vicar can help clarify.

The admissions authority (either the governing body or academy trust) makes decisions according to the published policy. The parish church does not allocate places. The parish church supports the Christian ethos of our local Church of England schools, but we do not control admissions. All decisions are made strictly in accordance with the school’s published admissions policy and national law.

Yes. It is common to have two or three godparents. At least one should be a baptised and confirmed Christian, but all can attend the service and take part in supporting the child.

There is a nationally set statutory fee for a funeral in church or at a crematorium. This covers: The minister’s time The service Administration (Payable where a minister conducts the service — in church, churchyard, crematorium or cemetery)   1. Funeral Services Funeral service in church (whether before or after burial or cremation): £244 Funeral service at crematorium or in premises belonging to a funeral director: £244 Funeral service at graveside in churchyard (including burial): £503 2. Burials / Disposal Fees (When the burial or disposal follows a service in church) Burial of body in churchyard: £390 Burial or lawful disposal of cremated remains in churchyard: £174 Burial or lawful disposal of remains in a public cemetery: £37 (When the burial or disposal takes place on a separate occasion — e.g., committal only) Burial of body in churchyard on a separate occasion: £425 Burial of cremated remains in churchyard on a separate occasion: £206 Burial or lawful disposal of remains in a cemetery on a separate occasion: £90 3. Certificates Certificate issued at the time of burial or disposal of cremated remains: £20 Additional local costs may include: Verger Organist Heating Burial fees (if applicable) Additional Notes: Fees are usually paid by the funeral director on families’ behalf. No clergy fee is charged if a funeral is conducted by a reader/licensed lay worker without a minister. There is no funeral or burial fee for a stillborn infant or a person under 18 years old.We can provide a full written breakdown.

There is no formal dress code. Candidates are encouraged to dress respectfully for a special church service.

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Yes. A Church of England wedding is both a religious service and a legally recognised marriage in England.

Burial fees are separate from the funeral service fee and may include: Interment fee Exclusive Right of Burial (if applicable) Memorial approval fees These vary depending on residency status and availability.

Yes. The vicar can include prayers, blessings, or thanksgiving for adults of any age during the baptism service.

Yes — at any age.

No. Parents or godparents do not need to be confirmed to have a child baptised. Confirmation is a separate step of personal faith, usually for older children or adults.

A Church of England wedding offers: A sacred setting Meaningful vows rooted in centuries of tradition The opportunity to make promises before God The support and prayers of the church community

Connect with us to find out when the next confirmation service is planned.

There is no formal dress code. Many adults choose smart, respectful clothing. If immersion is chosen, it’s best to wear darker clothing suitable for getting wet, and a robe or gown can be provided if desired.

Most families choose to use a funeral director, who manages practical arrangements and liaises with the church. However, you may contact us directly for guidance.

Typically, the service lasts 20–30 minutes, depending on whether it is part of a larger Sunday service or a dedicated baptism service.

Yes - we use an app to track attendance.

Yes, within the context of Christian worship. You may: Choose hymns Choose Bible readings Include a tribute Select appropriate music All content should be suitable for a church setting.

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Yes. The vicar can include a thanksgiving or dedication for children of any age, even if they are too young to make promises themselves.

Photography or video is usually allowed, but it should be unobtrusive. Families and sponsors should confirm arrangements with the vicar before the service.

Contact us to: Discuss your desire for baptism Arrange preparation sessions Choose a suitable date for the service

Secular music may be permitted at certain points (e.g. entry or exit), at the discretion of the minister.

There is no formal dress code. Many families choose smart or celebratory clothing, and some use traditional baptism gowns, though this is optional.

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They are still entitled to a Church of England funeral if they lived in the parish. The service will be conducted with dignity and compassion.

Photography or video is usually allowed, but it should be unobtrusive. Families should confirm with the vicar before the service.

For general Church of England guidance on adult baptism, see the national Church of England Baptism Guide.

Yes.

Contact us to: Discuss your child’s baptism Arrange preparation Choose a suitable date for the service

For general Church of England guidance on infant baptism, see the national Church of England Baptism Guide.

The Church of England conducts funerals for those who have died by suicide. The service emphasises compassion, mercy, and hope.

Timing depends on: Funeral director arrangements Burial or cremation availability Church diary We will work with you to find a suitable date.

Yes. Grief support and pastoral care may be available. Please contact us if you would value ongoing support.