Much of what we find in the entries to Baptisms/Christenings in the parish church record, depends on the dedication and local knowledge of parishoners, held by the parish clerk or vicar of that time. The clarity of entries also depends upon the use of the Quill pen, some writing with such artistic flair that a small "r" or even "s" could be misinterpreted as a looped "l". 

The entries below are just examples of the different  formats in which you might find some of the entries of baptisms listed. So great care should be taken in interpretating not only the handwriting but how the information is given. Age and deterioration of the original parchment books at the time they were microfilmed should also be taken into consideration as water and mildew marks sometimes obliterate names and dates. Check the baptismal date of the previous and next entry rather than try to guess what the entry says.

Baptisms and burials are sometimes mixed on the same pages and great care should be taken to double check that the entry is either one.  Bap. (Baptisms)  and Bur. (Burial)  abbreviations have also been used in entries I have seen. 

To learn more about Parish MARRIAGE Records and what this means to your research please read:

To learn more about Parish BURIAL  Records and what this means to your research please read:

To learn more about the history of Parish Church Records and what this means to your research please read