In today’s Trinity Sunday sermon I mentioned that in ecumenical terms, the concept of the Trinity is extremely important and that, when it comes to recognising baptism across the different denominations, the most important criterion is that baptism is trinitarian – in the name of Father, Son and Holy Spirit. I suggested that if this formula wasn’t used at a baptism, then it might not be acknowledged by other denominations.

Following the service, one of our long-standing members recalled that a number of years ago a Rector of All Saints had, on a regular basis, conducted baptisms without mention of the Trinity. Apparently he just threw a bit of water at the baby but didn’t say anything! Eventually the bishop was called in to put him right!

This led to a light-hearted discussion about the validity, or not, of such a service. In the end we decided it was better to be safe than sorry – so, in the style of a car manufacturer that realises it has released a batch of cars with faulty brakes and needs to recall them, we now issue the following recall notice:

“To all Christians baptised at All Saints, Glencarse between the years 19** and 19**:

It has come to our attention that a number of baptisms were performed between the above mentioned dates, at the above mentioned church at which the Trinitarian formula may have been omitted. Such baptisms may not be valid and we are therefore recalling all baptismal candidates baptised between 19** and 19** at All Saints, Glencarse.

If this applies to you, please contact the Rector of All Saints as soon as possible who will arrange, where necessary, for re-baptism. In the meantime, as a precaution, please avoid sinning, and try not to die.”