Frequently Asked Questions

What parish do I live in?

'A Church Near You' will instantly supply contact details of your parish church, where the Vicar or Rector will be more than happy to answer any questions you have to do with the Christian faith and what your local Church can offer.

I am thinking of getting married in Church...

Congratulations! Click here for more information.

How much does it cost to be baptised/married/buried, and how do I go about it?

A baptism costs nothing, but there are fees payable for marriages and funerals. For current costs, click here. To begin the process, contact the Vicar or Rector.

Why does the Church of England baptise infants?

The baptism of infants goes back to the earliest years of the Church, and is fully explained on the CofE website. Click here for details.

How many church schools are there in the diocese, and what are the rules for admission?

Closely allied to the church are 95 Church of England Schools in the diocese that are part of the state maintained sector. There are also two academies, three affiliated schools, one Foundation school, one sixth form college, twenty seven independent schools and a university. Admissions criteria for any particular Church school can be obtained from the Head Teacher.

Am I allowed to take Communion?

If you are a baptised member in good standing of any mainstream church you are welcome to share Communion in our churches.

What is diocesan policy on gay clergy?

Our policy on gay clergy is the same as that of the national Church.

I know someone in crisis who needs help. Who can advise them?

Pastoral care is a vital part of what your parish church offers. If local clergy are unable to help directly, they may be able to advise where assistance can be found.

How are clergy appointed?

There's no single method for appointing clergy for various roles in a particular Church. Appointments to full incumbencies (or even roles like that of Archdeacon) are usually made by means of advertisements, shortlists and interviews.

I believe I have a calling; how can I be ordained for ministry?

The process of discernment is complex; what we feel individually should be tested in the wider 'Body of Christ'. If you feel drawn towards a vocation in the Church, whether lay or ordained, you should talk first to your incumbent who will outline the appropriate procedure.

Who decides the amount of the parish share and what is done with the money raised?

'Parish Share' enables the Church of England to function. It is determined by the Diocesan Synod, and funds are used for clergy stipends, housing and pensions as well as the necessary parish resources and safeguards to facilitate the Church's ministry.

Who represents this diocese on the General Synod, and how were they appointed?

The Diocese of Winchester is organised locally into 390 parishes and 13 deaneries (Winchester is 1 of 44 Dioceses in the Church of England). Each Deanery has its own Synod which appoints representatives to the Diocesan Synod; this then seeks candidates to General Synod, electing four Lay and four Clerical representatives to speak for the Diocese alongside our Bishops (see General Synod page). General Synod meets twice each year: February in London and July in York.

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