There have been powerful moments of faith and celebration across the Diocese of Oxford in recent weeks. From baptisms in a river to confirmations in a care home. Each tell a story of belonging, community, and lifelong faith.
Baptisms in the river
On Sunday, Bishop Mary, Bishop of Reading, led a memorable confirmation and baptism service that took place not just in St Mary’s Church, Great Shefford, but in the cold waters of the River Lambourn itself.
Eight candidates from across the West Downland Benefice gathered as Bishop Mary presided over confirmations, baptisms and the renewal of baptism vows, joyfully (and bravely) wading into the river alongside them.
A bonfire on the riverbank provided much needed warmth.
The idea for river baptisms came from Alex, a Year 7 pupil, and Bishop Mary warmly embraced the vision.
Bishop Mary said:
'It was so moving to hear people's testimonies of finding faith, or experiencing faith in a new, vibrant way; to hear of all the ways in which God is calling people to life in relationship with Jesus.
“And to see the joy on people's faces as they emerged from the waters, and to pray for them to receive the Holy Spirit was wonderful. It was a cold afternoon – but full of warmth, love and hope!"
Outdoor baptisms have a long Christian tradition, echoing the practice of the early Church, and offer a vivid reminder of new life and commitment.
A confirmation in a care home
For others, the journey of faith comes later in life.
The Revd Val Kearney, a curate in the diocese, has been leading a weekly communion service at Sanctuary Care Home for the past three years. What began as a small act of pastoral care grew into something much more.
One of the elderly congregants didn’t want to receive Communion on her own. Val explains:
“She wouldn’t take Communion on her own with me, as she believed it should be a ‘communion’ with others of faith.”
In response, Val gathered a small group to worship together, creating a new community within the care home.
It was there that Dennis, a resident and regular attendee at services, shared that he had never been confirmed, and had therefore never received Communion.
“We talked it through,” says Val. “I assured him that it’s never too late to be confirmed.”
Encouraged by his son, himself a priest, and supported by a friend and the care home community, Dennis chose to take this step of faith.
The journey culminated in a special service led by Bishop Gavin Collins, Bishop of Dorchester, who confirmed Dennis and presided at Communion.
“The whole journey has been a joy,” Val reflects. “For me, and for our ministry team, and for the care home, as we have travelled with him.”
Explore baptism and confirmation for yourself
It's never too late (and the water's never too cold) for you to explore baptism and confirmation for yourself. Our online course lets you dig deeper into the theology and meaning of baptism at your own pace, or it works great in a church small group too. Everything you need to get going is on the Learning Hub.