What babyworlders think of baptism

Sam Pope asked babyworld members to share their thoughts on the rights and wrongs of baptising children for non-religious reasons..

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"Some of the mums from my antenatal group have been suddenly overcome with the urge to go religious just to get their kids into the nearest church school! It makes me fume. They honestly say they are only doing it for that reason. Last week I asked one if she and toddler would continue to go when toddler got a place in church school, and she said no. How dishonest is that? I know everybody wants the best for their kids but I really think that's really horrible. They even moan about having to get up early on Sundays to go to an 8am church service!" Trixie

"At the Catholic schools around here church attendance is expected from the children throughout their school life. My cousins are Catholics and the kids would feel pretty left out if they didn't go to church regularly as the school is so involved. In this area pretty much the only way to get a decent state education is to be Catholic. You have to get a letter of recommendation from the priest so there is leeway if he thinks someone is taking the mickey!" Julie

"I think it's good to do if it you want your kids to be the same religion as you, but I can't understand why people do it if they aren't religious. Just for a party and a pretty dress maybe? I've been meaning to get round to have naming ceremonies for my girls and I'm sure I will one day. I feel that if you do not have a religion, then a naming ceremony is a lovely way to have a special day for your kid." Susan xxx

"I have NOT baptised my children and do not intend to. I am not religious at all and see no point in registering my children into a religion I do not believe in, it's silly. I know of people who do it simply to get into the nearest catholic school ... fortunately, I'm not that desperate!" Tracy

"I have had both my children christened as I am a practising Catholic and intend to raise my children in the same way, although I am more than willing for them to decide their own beliefs as they get older. I do not agree with baptisms if you are then not going to attend Church unless it suits you. I do however know a lot of people who do just that (not all Catholics) and I do feel it is wrong." Angela

"Baptism is about accepting the faith. If you don't believe in the religion you aren't going to follow the ways - hence the waste of time (and money!). I have decided to wait, I take my son to church as I am a Christian, but I wouldn't force it on him, and he can choose to be baptised when he's older if that is what he wants." Diane

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