Church of Scotland invites more parents to consider baptism

Prince George has just been welcomed into the church and the Moderator of the Church of Scotland is inviting other parents to consider baptism for their own children.

The Moderator of the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, the Right Reverend Lorna Hood, spoke about the "delights" of baptism for both the young and the old.

She said: "For me as a Church of Scotland minister and a school chaplain one of the greatest delights is to baptise children of those I have baptised. It is such a joyful occasion and it isn't just for new babies either.

"I've lost count of how many babies and infants I have baptised but one of my loveliest memories is of baptising a mother and her five children, aged twelve to twelve weeks' all the same time."

The Church of Scotland examined baptism in a report its General Assembly in 2003 and 2004. The report discussed how baptism requirements and services have changed since the 16th century and the Church no longer expects at least one parent or other close family member to be a member of the Church.

Today someone who is not a parent but still significant for the child could bring the child for baptism, though with the written consent of the parents.

Mrs Hood added: "As the young royal couple take these vows, we hope that more young people would consider bringing their little ones, to learn of our faith and the values that Christianity stands for, values so needed in our world today."

News
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'
Danny Kruger: Britain should be 'confidently Christian'

Reform MP Danny Kruger has spoken of the need for Britain to once more assert itself as a  country with a long and rich Christian Heritage.

400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions
400 girls 'missing' thanks to sex-selective abortions

Sex selective abortions appear to be taking place within the Indian community, data suggests.

Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity
Community pantries mark a million visits as new research highlights impact on food insecurity

Community pantries across the UK have recorded their one millionth visit, as new research suggests the membership-based food model is helping thousands of households reduce food insecurity, cut costs and prevent them from falling into extreme hardship.

Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India
Christmas was a mix of joy and hostility for Christians in India

India has witnessed a blend of joyful Christmas celebrations in many parts of the country, alongside reports of hate, hostility, and attacks on Christians this season, particularly in northern and central regions.