“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit” (Matthew 28:19).
Originally for adults, Baptism is a celebration of Conversion or change of life, and of Belonging, becoming part of the Community of disciples of Christ called ‘the Church’.
Baptism is now often celebrated for the infant children of members of the Church, on the strength of their parents’ faith and with the expectation that that faith will be passed on to them by their Parents:
“Parents are the first teachers of their children in the ways of Faith; May they also be the best of teachers” (Rite of Infant Baptism).
If you hope to Baptise your child, please find a (green) form entitled ‘Your Child and Baptism‘ at the back of church, fill it in, and return it to the Parish office or give it to the priest to deliver.
Adults interested in being Baptised and Confirmed into the Catholic Church should start by joining the regular Sunday congregation, and then talking to one of the priests about how they might proceed.
Older children over ‘the age of reason’ (8yrs) but not yet reached the age of majority (18yrs) should make an appointment, with their parents, to talk to the parish priest.
Why Should We Baptise Our Baby?
- Celebrating Baptism is a chance for all the family to get together, to celebrate and to thank God for the new life which He has given.
- It is a time to remember that your baby is a part of God’s family as well as part of a human family.
- Jesus told his disciples to baptize people who wanted to become Christians, and to join the Church.
- Baptism is the ‘gateway to the Sacraments’; it is the opening to life in Christ. From Baptism we receive the grace and opportunity to grow in knowledge and love of God through his Word Jesus Christ teaching us in the Scriptures, and his Spirit helping us to recognise and realise his saving touch in Jesus in the celebration of the other sacraments.
- Baptism is NOT an insurance policy to ensure that your child goes to heaven, but it encourages them to be open to God and to know of his love for them.
What do I need to know prior to the service?
Most of your questions will be covered in the Parents Preparation for Baptism meetings which run in the Parish every few months. You will be given an outline of the Baptism service, a chance to choose scripture readings and think about hymns for the celebration, and some insight into the commitment you are undertaking for your child. At the end of the three preparation evenings, you will have the opportunity to fix a date, time and place for the celebration.
How do I join the Parish Preparation for Parents?
Please pick up a copy of the (green) leaflet entitled ‘Your Child and Baptism‘ available at the back of the church, fill it in, and return it to the Parish office or give it to the priest.
