FAB Parish — Holy Trinity & St Oswald with St Saviour
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Weddings & Baptisms

Marking life’s big moments

Our two churches are beautiful, welcoming places to celebrate a baptism or a wedding. Whether you’re part of our congregation already or you’ve never set foot inside a church before, you’re very welcome here.

A family gathered around the historic font for a baptism
A bride and groom holding hands during their wedding at Holy Trinity, Finningley
Baptisms & Christenings

A welcome into the family

Baptism (sometimes called a christening) is a joyful welcome into the family of the church. Water is poured, promises are made, a candle is lit — and a new life is celebrated by everyone gathered.

We baptise babies, children and adults. Whether it’s for your little one, an older child making their own decision, or you yourself — we’d love to talk it through with you.

Who can be baptised?

Anyone — babies, children, teenagers and adults. Baptism is a welcome into the family of the church, and it's never too late (or too early) to take that step.

Do we have to live in the parish?

Not necessarily. If you live in Finningley or Auckley, or have a connection to one of our churches, we'd love to talk. If you're further afield, get in touch and we'll point you in the right direction.

How much does it cost?

Baptism is free. There's no charge for the service itself. Some families choose to make a donation to the church, but there's absolutely no pressure to do so.

What happens on the day?

The service usually takes place at 12:30pm, after the Sunday morning services. We're two smallish churches and we just can't fit everyone in, so we accommodate one family at a time. There's water from the font, promises made by parents and godparents (for younger children), a candle, and lots of smiles.

How do we choose godparents?

Traditionally there are three: two of the same sex as the child and one of the other. Godparents should be baptised themselves. Don't worry if it's not quite that simple — our team will talk it through with you.

Weddings

Your wedding day, in a place that matters

There’s something special about being married in a parish church — a sense of history, of community, and of something bigger than the day itself. Holy Trinity in Finningley is a stunning historic church; St Saviour’s in Auckley is a warm and intimate setting. Either makes a beautiful start to married life.

We’d love to chat about your day — the music, the readings, the practicalities, the meaning, and of course the legal stuff. One of our ministers will walk you through everything, from your first enquiry to the moment you walk back down the aisle as a married couple.

A fountain pen resting on the marriage register, ready for signing

Can we get married here?

If you live in the parish, were baptised here, or have a qualifying connection (family link, regular worshipper, previously lived here), then yes. Even if you don't — there are ways to establish a connection. Get in touch and we'll work it through with you.

How far in advance should we book?

As early as you can, especially for popular Saturdays in spring and summer. A year ahead isn't unusual — but do ask whatever the timeline; we'll always try to help.

What about the legal bits?

We'll guide you through banns, paperwork and the marriage register. There's nothing you need to sort out alone.

How much does it cost?

The Church of England sets the statutory fees for weddings each year. We'll give you a full breakdown when we meet, covering the service, banns, certificate, and any extras like music or flowers you'd like.

Can we have our own music, readings, or vows?

Yes — there's plenty of room to make the service your own. We'll work with you on hymns, readings and music, and our ministers will help you plan a service that feels personal and special.

Also available

Renewal of vows & thanksgiving services

Marking an anniversary? Welcoming a new baby with a service of thanksgiving rather than baptism? We’d love to mark those moments with you too. Just get in touch and we’ll talk about what would suit.

Get in touch

Let’s talk

The easiest first step is to drop us a line or give the church office a ring. There’s no commitment — we’re very happy to answer questions, talk through possibilities, or arrange a chat over a cup of tea.