LETTERS: Baby blessings

From Canon Robert Parsons Sir: Three cheers for the ceremonies of welcome for new babies ("Welcome, baby, in our very own way", 23 December). Doubtless many new parents have done something of the sort in their home to mark this great step in their lives,and the life of their child.

Why do you call this an "alternative to a christening", which is the sacrament of entering into Christian life? Often christening has been associated with birth, but that is secondary. Christians value their having been "baptised into Christ", with all its significance for life, death and resurrection. There is no reason why they should not have their children baptised and arrange a welcoming ceremony.

Yours sincerely, ROBERT PARSONS Precentor Derby Cathedral Derby