From when the first baptism took place of the 17th February, 1931,
the daughter of Mr. Shoosmith, the font has been used for children
and adults representing a wide spectrum of society. The fathers of children
baptized have included, besides army personnel, a baronet, labourers, decorators,
khansamas (cooks), shoemakers, doctors etc. An interesting baptism was
when Edwin Joseph, a vehicle mechanic and his wife Dorothea
had three of their children baptized on the same day, the 22nd
November, 1953. The oldest baptism was that of Kenneth Nathaniel Maddens,
a havildar; he was 43 years old and baptized on the 7th September,
1943.
Congregation is billingual, using both English and Hindi. Till 1976 there
were separate services for the two language groups; but subsequently combined
services became the order of the day.
The
church has received outstanding visitors; perhaps the most memorable being
the last Viceroy, Lord Mountbatten and Lady Mountbatten on
Easter, 1947. The golden jubilee service was well attended - an overflowing
attendance, in 1981. Besides confirming confirmation candidates, Bishops
of Delhi have regularly officiated and preached in this parish church.
The Remembrance Sunday Services attract armed forces personnel, irrespective
of religion.
The
Church compound is used by a church school of the same name as the church.
The nave of the church is made available for the Montessori section with
over 200 little children busy with their studies. Thus during the week-days
the building is 'alive' and in service.
