Baptism is the first of the Sacraments of Initiation and the beginning of our life in Christ. Through Baptism, we are welcomed into the Church, freed from sin and called to grow in faith as members of the Christian community.

The Sacrament of Baptism

According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church (1213), “Holy Baptism is the basis of the whole Christian life, the gateway to life in the Spirit and the door which gives access to the other sacraments. Through Baptism we are freed from sin and reborn as sons/daughters of God; we become members of Christ, are incorporated into the Church and made sharers in her mission: “Baptism is the sacrament of regeneration through water in the word.

(CCC 1216) Baptism is God’s most beautiful and magnificent gift. . .. We call it gift, grace, anointing, enlightenment, garment of immortality, bath of rebirth, seal, and most precious gift. It is called gift because it is conferred on those who bring nothing of their own; grace since it is given even to the guilty; Baptism because sin is buried in the water; anointing for it is priestly and royal as are those who are anointed; enlightenment because it radiates light; clothing since it veils our shame; bath because it washes; and seal as it is our guard and the sign of God’s Lordship.

(Can. 849) Through baptism men and women are freed from sin, are reborn as children of God, and, configured to Christ by an indelible character, are incorporated into the Church.

(CCC 1222) Baptism is prefigured in the crossing of the Jordan River by which the People of God received the gift of the land promised to Abraham’s descendants, an image of eternal life. The promise of this blessed inheritance is fulfilled in the New Covenant.

(CCC1215) …Baptism signifies and actually brings about the birth of water and the Spirit without which no one “can enter the kingdom of God.

Baptism Preparation

Parents who wish to have their child baptised are invited to contact the parish to discuss the arrangements and preparation required before the celebration of Baptism. Baptism preparation provides an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of the sacrament, the responsibilities of parents and godparents, and the commitment involved in bringing a child up in the Catholic faith.

Godparents

Godparents have an important role in supporting the newly baptised person in their journey of faith. They are called to support the parents and to help the child grow in their knowledge and love of God and the Catholic faith. The parish can provide guidance regarding the requirements for godparents when you make arrangements for Baptism.

Arranging a Baptism

If you are considering having your child baptised, please contact the parish to discuss the arrangements, preparation and available dates. Further information, including any application forms or practical arrangements, will be provided by the parish.