Baptism record books

[Kenberks]

I have noticed notes in the margin of some baptism records on entries that I strongly suspect are for children who have died shortly after being baptised. A "b" is placed adjacent to the date of birth and a "p" adjacent to the baptism date. Are these possibly placed by the minister indicating "born" and "passed on" ?

[daggers]

I have always understood that 'p' against a baptismal record stood for 'private'. This could be when a child was baptised at the place of birth, when there was a possibility of early death, either by a priest or by a lay person. It could also mean that a private ceremony was performed in church, rather than in a public service.
You are right about 'b' for date of birth.
D

[MaryA]

I would agree with that, a private baptism might have taken place if the child was poorly and not expected to live, it would have been noted against the church baptism which would have been a welcoming into the church as I believe they wouldn't have done two baptisms.

[Kenberks]

OK, thanks for explaining.