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  Baptisms (Christenings)
 
  Baptism marks the beginning of a journey with God which continues for the rest of our lives. It is a first step in response to God's love. When an adult is baptised he/she makes promises about living a Christian way of life. This means turning towards the Lord Jesus, and turning away from what we know to be wrong. When children are baptised these promises are made on their behalf by parents and godparents, who also promise to bring the children up to follow the Christian way of life.
   
  Adults seeking baptism should contact one of the clergy. Special arrangements are usually made for the baptism of adults.
   
    For the baptism of children, if you live within the parish your children have an automatic right of baptism here. Elsewhere, if you have a clear link with a church in this parish, your children may also be baptised here, but you should first obtain permisiion from your own Parish Priest. To book a baptism for a child please contact the Parish Office.
   
    Where a person has a clear link with the church concerned, a baptism can be arranged at Swallowdale Area Church, Welby Church and Sysonby Church.

For further information on Baptism please telephone (01664) 562267
   
   
    Weddings (and Services of Blessing)
   
    The Church recognises marriage as part of God's loving purpose for humankind, and affirms it as a life-long partnership of love and faithfulness. In a wedding in church, a couple make clear vows to each other, and receive the assurance of God's blessing on their life together. In a Service of Blessing a couple reaffirms the vows they have already taken and then receive the blessing.
   
    Weddings and Services of Blessing can take place at the churches of St Mary's Melton Mowbray, St Mary the Virgin Thorpe Arnold and St James' Burton Lazars. Generally, residence within the parish is needed for a wedding to take place in one of our churches. Where someone is divorced, a couple must be interviewed by a member of the clergy team before a firm booking can be taken. To book a wedding please contact the Parish Office.
   
   
    Funerals
   
    The clergy are available to help in cases of bereavement. Funeral arrangements are best made through a funeral director.
    Local Funeral Directors:
    SpacerGerald Hazlewood (01664) 812233
    SpacerRichard Barnes (01664) 565311
    SpacerCooperative Funeral Service (01664) 481201