Baptism, confirmation, weddings, blessings and funerals at St Barnabas
Celebrating our life in Christ
We’re here to help you celebrate the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and marriage, as well as commemorate loved ones who have died. The first step is to speak to our clergy after Parish Mass, or if you’re unable to visit us in person, to email us.
Baptism, confirmation and marriage are sacraments to be offered unconditionally, not as a reward for coming to church.
Father Brian Ralph | Parish Priest, St Barnabas Bethnal Green
Baptism
We baptise people of any age and background. To be baptised, you don’t need to be a regular churchgoer; baptism marks the beginning of a life with Christ, and all are welcome to be baptised. If you’d like to be baptised, or would like us to baptise your child, please see us after Parish Mass on Sunday or email Father Brian Ralph.
Weddings, blessings and vow renewals
If you live in the parish of St Barnabas Bethnal Green and are legally entitled to be married by the Church of England, you’re welcome to be married (which includes legal marriage) or to have a civil marriage blessed. To have your banns read, or to discuss your ceremony further, please speak with us after Parish Mass on Sunday or email Father Brian Ralph.
If you don’t live in the parish, or if you don’t meet the legal requirements as set out by the Church of England, please email Father Brian Ralph. We offer our love and support for all couples, as well as prayer for the General Synod as they consider reform. If you’re already married and want to renew your vows, please also email Father Brian Ralph.
Confirmation
Every year, we invite young people and adults to make a public declaration of their commitment to the Christian faith. In this ceremony, a candidate reaffirms the promises made during baptism and is welcomed as a confirmed member of the Church of England. As a candidate must make these promises for themselves, the earliest age for confirmation is typically ten or eleven. If you feel you or your child is ready to make this commitment, speak to us after Parish Mass on Sunday.
Funerals
Church of England funerals are available to all. If you wish to hold a funeral at St Barnabas Bethnal Green, or if you’d like a member of our clergy to officiate your funeral elsewhere, please speak with a member of our clergy after Parish Mass on Sunday or email Father Brian Ralph. We’re also available for pastoral support to help you navigate through your loss.
